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Many people believe extroverts are superior to introverts, but that's simply not true. How does this misperception happen?
Well, when you think about the people in your business, the ones who spring to mind first are probably those who make themselves known. You probably think of the first person to ask a question in a meeting, or the teammate that is always offering an opinion during a conversation or volunteering to present. Usually, these loud-spoken team members are the extroverts.
But, it’s important not to overlook the introverts in your organization!
Introverts may not always appear as outgoing and confident as extroverts, but they are no doubt adding incredible value to your business. (Go here to learn why diversity of voices is important for your organization.)
When is World Introvert Day?
World Introvert Day is celebrated next on January 2, 2025.
What is an introvert?
Introverts are often thought of as being quiet. They are less likely to speak up during meetings, and they aren’t fans of small talk.
Introverts can often come across as shy, unfriendly and withdrawn, but they bring a lot to the table; they just prefer to do it in their own, understated way.
Introverts need periods of alone time to help them thrive. They are often very creative and very productive, but their input may not be immediately delivered within a brainstorming meeting.
Let’s celebrate our introverts.
Some of the most successful people in the world are introverts. In fact, Albert Einstein, Steven Spielberg, Rosa Parks and Meryl Streep all admitted that they’re introverts.
Ahead of World Introvert Day, we should all spare a moment to try and understand introverts a bit better and consider their needs, to help them thrive at work and in life.
Introverts make great employees.
A successful business requires all kinds of people, including introverts. More importantly, introverts have many strengths they bring to a team, including:
- Excellent critical thinking.
- Good listening skills.
- An understanding of the bigger picture.
- Excellent attention to detail.
- Self-motivation.
- High standards (that they set for themselves).
There are ways to help introverts at work.
The best way to celebrate World Introvert Day is by helping introverts feel included at work.
Here are 6 simple ways employers and managers can help bring out the best in their introverted employees:
1. Give people time to think, plan and prepare.
Introverts don’t like to be rushed or asked to provide an idea that’s only half-formed. They prefer to share something that’s fully thought-out. So, providing employees with time to think and gather their thoughts means you’re more likely to generate great ideas and solutions from introverts.
Send a clear agenda before a meeting so everyone can prepare questions or ideas in advance. And, rather than only asking on-the-spot questions or requesting feedback at the end of a session, give employees the opportunity to email you or call you the following day, once they’ve had a chance to reflect and gather their thoughts.
2. Respect people’s space.
Open-space offices can pose a challenge for introverts, as they’re easily stimulated and can become drained by lengthy interactions with people. Likewise, a day full of Zoom meetings can be a lot of eye contact.
It’s a good idea to provide a quiet, calm space (real or virtual) where people can spend a few minutes to re-energize before heading back into a busy work environment. This is helpful for everyone, and a must for your introverted employees.
While teamwork is often an essential part of working for a company, it’s important to remember that introverts often perform best when they work independently. So allow employees to work without continual disruption when possible, as disruption can negatively impact an employee’s creativity.
3. Use virtual communication to your advantage.
Social media, instant messaging and other forms of virtual communication can provide a welcome solace for introverted employees.
Virtual communication platforms allow colleagues to write their responses rather than answering straightaway, giving introverts more time and freedom to structure their responses and express their ideas more clearly.
Of course, that doesn’t mean you should encourage Slack or email above all other channels. However, it does mean you should allow people to communicate how they are most productive and most comfortable, unless there is a reason to do otherwise.
4. Support your introverts.
Introverts aren’t keen on self-promotion and usually prefer not to speak publicly. They’d rather let their work speak for itself.
You can become an advocate for your introverted employees by giving them the opportunity to speak without being cut off and by recognizing their efforts and contributions without them being pointed out to you.
5. Don’t lower your expectations.
Just because someone is an introvert, it doesn’t mean they’ll never socialize or speak to a crowd.
Supporting your introverts does not mean lowering your expectations. Instead, think about how they want to be encouraged.
6. Don’t try to change introverts.
Introverts are not less than extroverts — they’re just different.
When you see an introvert lunching on their own, it’s okay to invite them to join you. But don’t assume they want company.
When you realize an introvert has been quiet throughout a meeting, don’t force them to speak up. But, you can tell them how to get thoughts to you later.
If an introvert decides to skip a holiday celebration, don’t make them feel bad about it.
Let your introverts be introverts, and they will shine.
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