If you’re an introvert working in an extroverted environment or industry, it’s not uncommon to feel ignored, uncomfortable or misunderstood. In fact, according to a study on introverted professionals by Jennifer B. Kahnweiler, Ph.D., four out of five introverts believe their extroverted counterparts are more likely to get ahead in the workplace. Even more interesting is that over 40 percent say they would like to change their introverted tendencies, but don’t know where or how to begin.
Even though you would rather be working behind the scenes than in the front, by leveraging your strengths and pushing outside of your comfort zone, you can level the playing field and succeed just as much as your extroverted coworkers.
Jennifer notes that there is no magic bullet for managing your introversion, but you can learn how to thrive by embracing and expanding who you are; there’s no need to try and change your personality or work style. She suggests an ongoing framework of following the 4 p’s:
Additionally, it’s important to understand your weaknesses. For example, as an introvert you are more likely to avoid being the center of attention. Translate that into the workplace and you probably prefer one-on-one conversations to public speaking. Find a style of presenting that works for you. Perhaps that’s visually rather than verbally.
Learning and practicing new skills may be uncomfortable at first, but with conscious repetition and refinement, you can use your introversion to your advantage and thrive in the extroverted world of business.
Jennifer B. Kahnweiler research was originally featured in the May 2013 edition of The Bob Pike Group’s Creative Training Techniques newsletter at www.CreativeTrainingTech.com.
Mentor them properly and they just might be your competitive advantage.
