Conventional wisdom assumes that an extrovert, an outgoing and outspoken person, makes for an ideal leader, and is thus more likely to be successful than the opposite: the introvert. There are plenty of studies that support this idea. For example, extroverted people are more likely to hold high-earning jobs due to their assertiveness, sociability, and boldness.
When it comes to success and high-paying jobs, introverts seem to be at a disadvantage. But that’s not necessarily the case.
Common characteristics of an introvert
To explore the correlation between introverts and success, we first have to understand what introversion is.
Simon Sinek offers an interesting visualization of the difference between introverts and extroverts in terms of social interactions. According to Sinek, introverts wake up with a set amount of coins to spend per day. For every interaction, they lose one coin. Extroverts wake up with no coins. For every interaction, they gain one coin. In other words, extroverts gain energy from social interactions while introverts are drained by socializing.
At social events, introverts display more reservation than enthusiasm. They need to spend time alone to recharge afterward. On the other hand, extroverts are energized by engaging social settings.
However, do not misunderstand introverts’ aversion to social events as shyness. While introversion and shyness can exist simultaneously, the two aren’t necessarily linked.
In terms of work preference, introverts generally prefer a quiet environment to concentrate and work. They are usually the most comfortable, creative, and productive in solitude.
Introversion is not a barrier to leadership
In our culture, the assumed successful leader is usually sociable, outgoing, and expressive. They enjoy being around people and engaging in conversations. In other words, they are extroverts. You almost never hear that an introvert has the advantage in taking on leadership roles.
However, contrary to popular belief, introversion is not a barrier to leadership.
A study from Harvard Business Review evaluated the performance of 930 CEOs. Surprisingly, more than half of the CEOs who outperformed the expectations of directors and investors were introverts rather than extroverts.
This is not to say that extroverts can’t also be great leaders. Extroverted leaders have some important strengths, such as being able to grab the attention of others and taking charge of discussions. However, these traits can be ineffective at times.
When managing proactive followers, introverted leaders are more effective. They tend to listen more carefully to workers’ ideas and are more open-minded to suggestions. On the other hand, extroverted leaders tend to feel threatened and are unreceptive in similar situations.
Valuable traits of introverts
Introverts have many hidden advantages in leadership that are often overlooked.
Introverts tend to process information internally and more carefully instead of thinking aloud. This type of thinking is a better problem-solving strategy because introverts do more reflecting and consider more aspects of a problem.
In terms of risk-taking, the most common assumption is that since extroverts are bolder, they are more likely to take risks and thus make better leaders. However, being more conservative about risk-taking doesn’t mean that introverts don’t take risks, but rather that they are slower and more cautious about it. As a result, they are less likely to make rash decisions.
Another crucial aspect of leadership is innovation – a quality that allows leaders to adapt to constantly-changing environments and an unpredictable future. People subconsciously imitate the opinions and behaviors of those around them, which can hinder a person’s ability to be original. Being in solitude, which introverts prefer, helps them think more individually and without distraction.
By acknowledging the valuable traits of being an introvert and maximizing their strengths, introverts can be just as competent of leaders as extroverts – and sometimes even more competent.
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To succeed as leaders, introverts have to overcome a cultural bias. Because they aren’t the loudest in the room, introverts are perceived as shy or poor public speakers. Because of their preference for small gatherings with a few close friends instead of large social settings, introverts are often disqualified from leadership opportunities.
As an introvert myself, I enjoy solitude and prefer working alone, but I can also engage in meaningful discussions and be outspoken when needed. Introverts may take more time to voice their ideas and establish a strong presence in a group, but there are advantages unique to them.
Introverts can make great leaders and succeed. What’s important is to acknowledge the advantages of introversion and be able to think, adapt, listen, reflect, and form meaningful relationships.
As an ambivert that is more of an introvert, I agree with your article. Like you, I can also engage in group discussions and give good opinions. People should stop assuming others’ performance based on them being extroverted or introverted.