6 Reasons Why Introverts Make Great Leaders and Networkers
People often think of introverts as reserved and quiet, socially awkward, solitary and soft-spoken. This perception would further suggest that introverts lack the confidence and social skills that great leaders, pioneers, and change makers possess. You may be surprised to learn that 40 % of leaders and executives identify themselves as introverts. Their success proves that leadership is not monopolized by those with an outgoing, and highly-confident temperament.
Here are six qualities that introverts leverage to harness effective leadership and networking skills.
Introverts listen first and talk later
Introverts tend to shy away from small talk because it drains their energy. Typically, they prefer to stay on the sidelines and listen first before they weigh in with their own viewpoint.This trait allows introverts to be especially effective leaders, since successful collaboration requires effective communication. Introverts tend to evaluate the full picture of a situation, carefully prepare what they are going to say, and add comments and instructions that are well thought out and clearly communicated.
Introverts have special internal powers
Introverts are known to have special internal powers—like thoughtfulness, creativity and vivid imagination. They can more easily form ideas, insights, and solutions. An introvert who sits back in a meeting, taking in the discussion and debates, dreamily reflecting on the big picture, may be seen as not contributing—that is, until he or she works out the solution that all the other meeting participants missed.
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Introverts don’t have to fake sincerity
Because of their lower social energy, small talk can be cumbersome for introverts, which can make networking more challenging. But because networking is key to opening up important business opportunities, it requires introverts to step outside of their comfort zone a bit. Introverts use their natural sincerity to lessen their anxiety and better engage others in conversation, often making meaningful connections.
Introverts have great writing skills
Introverts prefer to communicate in writing because it allows them to organize their ideas as they pen or type their thoughts. Introverts are great at utilizing social media as an effective platform for voicing their ideas and directing their audience towards their cause. What they may struggle to express verbally, they articulate through a combination of compelling text and visual content.
Introverts know the value of recharging
Introverts know that engaging in too many group activities and events drains them. Once their social energy is used up, introverts tend to withdraw from their surroundings in search of rejuvenation. Introverts are good at setting aside time to get back into their contemplative zone and re-energize. They use this time to come up with new strategies and ideas and surprise their colleagues and bosses with their surge in enthusiasm and passion at work.
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Introverts make great networkers
At their most tedious, networking events can devolve into a room full of people frantically trying to sell themselves and listening to no one. Because introverts are comfortable with silence, they are often better able to practice attentive listening. And they don't mind when it takes someone else a few moments to collect their thoughts or explain a complex concept. We all appreciate walking away from a conversation in which we feel we have been truly heard and understood.
If you are an introvert I hope that my blog has helped you feel that I have set the record straight for anyone who might be skeptical about your leadership and networking abilities. You definitely have an abundance of leadership and networking talent that 'everyone' can learn from most especially your extraverted friends.
