Tips for the Introverted Leader

The world is not full of extroverts. Though studies have shown that extroverts make up 75% of the population that means that the remaining 25% identify as introverts. In most cases, introverts are the quiet, shy, “thinker” types that avoid the large social gatherings, don’t speak up often in meetings, and are encouraged by their bosses to be “more vocal”, to be more of a “team player”, to be more enthusiastic.

Now, of course each one of us is very unique and not every introvert falls into every one of these generalized characteristics, but you get the point. In your office, there are the extroverts and the introverts.

And perhaps you lean toward the introvert side? Well, you are in luck, because we have come across some great tips to help fuel you in your personal leadership.

Jennifer Kahnweiler, author of The Introverted Leader, discusses how entrepreneurship and business leadership is hard, and even harder on introverts. There is the expectation to be boisterous, to be continuously selling yourself and your company, to be networking whenever the opportunity arises – and this can be exhausting for the introverted. 

Kahnweiler outlined these tips to help you, the introverted leader, utilize your sharp observational skills and love of solitude to excel.

1. Spend Solo Time Thinking About Strategy

You are naturally good at this. Take some intentional time to deeply consider where others are coming from; their perspective of a situation, their motives, and how you can better influence them or help them reach their goals.

2. Use the Power of One-on-One Conversations

Big meetings can be intimidating for introverts, and they aren't the only place to get things done. The conversations that happen outside of the conference room are actually the more effective ones for people to get to know you. Don’t shy away from the opportunities for small group or one-on-one conversations. This can be a very powerful force.

3. Notice Who the Other “Quiet Influencers” Are

You've got keen observation skills; here is another great way to use them. There are others just like you who generally shift toward to outer edges of the conversations.  Utilize your insight to identify these individuals and in a one-on-one conversation, “provoke new thoughts, create change and challenge [them],” writes Kahnweiler. They may have some of the most interesting, well-developed opinions and ideas for your business.

4. Identify What You Want to Change

Another benefit from your time observing is being able to see the things within yourself that are holding you back.  Push yourself to keep growing and developing. One of Kahnweiler’s clients realized she wanted to change how people perceived her, so she used some techniques from actors. “She slowed her breath down, raised her voice a level and increased her eye contact with others throughout the day,” writes Kahnweiler, which helped her colleagues and clients see her as “a highly competent and strong contributor.”

5. Make the Most of Social Networking

In our world of online profiles, this can be a great tool for an introvert like you. People only know what you let them know, and developing a strong online presence can help you achieve the visibility and exposure that might be more difficult to gain in person.  After all, it doesn't matter if you get tongue-tied posting on Twitter, you only have 140 characters.