4 Things Introverts Do that Makes Them Effective Leaders

Today, when we think of great leaders, we typically think of people with charisma, booming voices and big, bold personalities.

Since the turn of the 20th century, it’s these qualities that have garnered praise, while qualities like being quiet and introspective have been seen as subpar, writes author Susan Cain in her book Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking.

Our culture has dictated that great leaders and employees must be extroverts who are able to not only sell their companies, but also sell themselves.

Even colleges started actively choosing extroverted candidates.

Here’s a glimpse into how introverted leaders do each one (and you can, too):

1. Introverts prepare.

When addressing their team, giving presentations or networking with colleagues, introverts don’t wing it, Kahnweiler said. “They spend time thinking through their goals and preparing for questions, which gives them an edge.”

For instance, in The Introverted Leader she gave an example of an IT leader who went to an important networking event. He requested to see the seating chart beforehand and studied the people he wanted to target at the big event. “Preparation was the key to reducing his anxiety, and it helped him secure a large account.”

2. Introverts are present.

“When introverts are with you, they’re with you,” Kahnweiler said. Because they prepare extensively, they’re able to go with the flow and stay in the present moment. They don’t multitask, instead giving individuals their full attention. They also focus and pick up on cues from others as they’re giving a talk, she said.

3. Introverts push themselves.

Introverted leaders challenge themselves, Kahnweiler said. “They’re conscious about stretching and growing.” They also help their introverted employees push themselves.

For instance, Kahnweiler’s client is an introverted leader who’s also managing an introverted employee. He’s started sending him to meetings in his place. This way he can get accustomed to this part of the job and sharpen his social skills.

4. Introverts practice.

Kahnweiler uses the analogy of injuring your hand and having to use your other hand. “You never write like you do with your dominant hand, but you learn to adjust.” For instance, if public speaking is a challenge for you, practice is what’ll help you move into mastery, according to Kahnweiler.

In The Introverted Leader, she shares several ideas for getting more practice: Read More...