2nd January is World Introvert Day and gives those of us who need some peace and quiet the chance to have some time and space to recharge our batteries after the busy festive period during which we will have no doubt become exhausted at some point or other by socialising and stepping out beyond our preferred personality traits.
What is an introvert?
There are numerous definitions which tend to typically include similar words and phrases to describe introversion. Very Well Mind provide this definition, “The word introvert is used to describe someone who tends to turn inward, meaning they focus more on internal thoughts, feelings, and moods rather than seeking out external stimulation”, and, “Introverts tend to be more quiet, reserved, and introspective. Extroverts gain energy from social interaction, while introverts expend energy in social situations”. Characteristically introverts like structure, logic and planning ahead, they are systematic, analytical and observant but equally introverts can also be creative, energetic and articulate.
Benefits of introversion at work
Because of their innate preferences introverts usually have a working style which is different to their more extrovert colleagues. Introverts like to have a specific focus and their desire to work in an ordered manner lends itself well to managing projects due to their greater ability to concentrate and work methodically. Introverts are not natural risk takers and will analyse all available data, evidence and statistics so that they can make a fully informed decision which can be critical in many roles. An inherent strength of introversion is being observant and a good listener, introverts take more time to understand the world around them and in people focussed roles that is crucial to success. Consequently, introverts will notice when someone isn’t themselves and will support colleagues, they will also spend time with customers to fully understand what they really want and to help them to achieve whatever that is. Introverts are commonly excellent teammates and colleagues, introverts are not normally outspoken, they dislike conflict, they like and follow rules and procedures and they are loyal and trustworthy.
Downsides of introversion at work
Despite the many positives of introversion, it does lead to behaviours in some introverts which can hold them back or be seen as negative at work. An introvert’s desire to take time to think things through can make them appear hesitant to come up with opinions and ideas and means that they often don’t make decisions quickly which can hold things up for others and cause frustrations. Due to liking structure and organisation introverts can find it difficult to be flexible which can lead to problems when tasks and priorities are constantly changing. Owing to their inward focus introverts can also appear shy and even withdrawn from colleagues on occasions, they resist face to face communication which is detrimental in certain situations and from time to time introverts like to take themselves out of team and busy office environments and seek refuge in quieter spaces. This can mean that introverts may not cope well in noisy, open plan offices or in teams where there is lots of discussion and interaction.
How to get the best from your introverts
In the book Quiet by Susan Cain, she extols the value of introversion and how creative and innovative introverts can be, her Ted Talk on the Power Of Introverts is well worth watching if you want to encourage and empower introverts in your business. Recognising introversion and helping your team to understand what that means is very important. Some introverts, and indeed extroverts, won’t have the level of self-awareness that allows them to understand why they are, how they are, and being able to help them along the journey of understanding themselves better is crucial and really powerful and supportive. By creating the right working environment for introverts you will help them to flourish. This can be the physical environment where they have space to work in quieter areas or from home at times. Also, in meetings or other group settings consider how you can get the best from introverts by allowing them time to think about what is being discussed before asking them to offer an opinion, you could share some of the topics of discussion in advance so that they can prepare or allow time after a meeting for them to make contributions. Introverts don’t like being thrust into the spotlight and don’t enjoy being the centre of attention. If you want to celebrate something they have done or congratulate them then respect their preferences and recognise them in more subtle ways, a quiet thank you or a short email will be received much better. Patience with introverts is also key and you will see the best from them if they are given the time they need.
Introverts are estimated to make up at least one third of the population. It is therefore highly likely that in any team or any business you will find a mixture of introverts, extroverts and those who happily sit between the two and you should appreciate each group for the value that they bring. Diversity of personality is as important as any other type of diversity in that it gives a business a rounded and rich pool of people who when they all deploy their own strengths effectively can make a powerful and positive contribution to the success of your business.
Do you have questions about our Introverts At Work article?
Give us a call at CUBE HR on 01282 678321, we’ll be happy to advise you and we have policies and templates available to meet every HR need.
Why not check out our blog on a similar topic Dealing With Loneliness
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