An Introverts Guide to Mastering Strategic Leadership - Introvert Whisperer

Introvert Whisperer / An Introvert’s Guide to Mastering Strategic Leadership - Introvert Whisperer An Introvert’s Guide to Mastering Strategic Leadership Our culture deems extrovert characteristics as the obvious signs of a strong leader. Consequently, those who are outspoken, quick to act, and enjoy group work tend to rise to the top of the totem pole in the workplace. These types of leaders thrive on being around others and therefore are often seen as charismatic, confident, and likable. However, all the most successful businesses need a diverse set of leaders to really take the company to the greatest heights. Introverts, too, have important characteristics that make them great leaders. While their leadership traits may not be as apparent on the surface, they have much to offer a company when put in managerial or other leadership positions. Some of the qualities that come more naturally to introverts can even be harder for extroverts to develop. Thus, introverts should take confidence in their personality type and strive for those positions of power in the workplace. Read on to learn how to strategically hone your leadership skills as an introvert. Play Up Your Strengths First, introverts should identify and learn more about their strengths, then play them up to their advantage at work. Contrary to popular belief, introverts have a lot to offer as influential leaders. While they may not be the first to jump at the chance to speak in public, they can use their more thoughtful, introspective demeanor to help their company grow. Here are five traits that most introverts should be able to exude with ease: 1. Listen and Show Empathy While most extroverted leaders can easily talk to a crowd, introverts have the complementary skill of listening. Introverts can use this tool to understand their employees and customers. By listening closely to those who work for them, introverted leaders will be able to increase efficiency and place employees in positions that utilize their strengths. They’ll really get to know their team and earn their respect, inspiring them to work harder and develop a loyalty to the company. And by listening and showing empathy to customers, introverted leaders will be able to hone in on what’s really working for the company â€" and fix what’s not. 2. Think Before Acting Introverts are naturally more thoughtful than most extroverts when it comes to decision-making. Extroverts are usually quick to act and make decisions. Some companies value this skill since it is useful in moments of pressure when a choice needs to be made, but thoughtful, methodical decision-making will usually bring better results in the long run. 3. Use Self-Awareness to Improve Because they spend more time listening and observing, introverts are also usually more self-aware than extroverts. This skill can be used to be in a constant state of self-improvement. By noticing areas of strength and weakness, introverts can identify how best to be of service to their company. 4. Work with Individuals Introverts do well in one-on-one situations rather than getting things done with group work. This can be advantageous for someone in a leadership position, since it allows the leader to get to know employees and learn what they’re capable of. Working one-on-one gives introverted leaders a chance to listen and empathize with their individual team members. 5. Create a Calm Atmosphere When situations inevitably get stressful from time to time, introverts can make the most of their calming energy to keep everyone from losing sight of reality. Introverted leaders have an important role in setting the tone of the company and painting a harmonious environment where employees want to be. Be Cognizant of Your Limits Now that we’ve talked about introvert strengths, it’s time to discuss areas that an introvert may need to use their introspective talent in order to set personal limits. By realizing areas of weakness, an introvert can avoid problematic situations and help others understand their personality. 1. Take Time for Self-Care The core difference between introverts and extroverts is about where they get their energy. Introverts get energy from being alone, so an introverted leader should take time to be alone and restore themselves on a regular basis. An introvert leader who neglects their need for alone time could end up feeling frazzled, burned out, or listless, rendering them an ineffective leader. At the same time, it’s important that your employees feel comfortable enough to approach you when needed, which may sometimes come at an expense to your alone time. The bottom line is, take the time to take care of your employees as your job requires without neglecting taking care of yourself in the process. 2. Schedule Difficult Conversations Talking can be draining for introverts, so difficult conversations are even more challenging than light-hearted small talk. If an introverted leader needs to address a problem, fire an employee, discuss raises, etc., it can help to schedule the conversation well in advance and go into the meeting well-rested and ready for action. 3. Keep Meetings Limited Introverts will do well to limit their meetings, since they’re the most common source of fatigue for an introverted leader. Keep meetings short in their duration, and they’ll usually be more productive and stay on topic. 4. Showcase Talents While extroverts often have no trouble talking about their capabilities, introverts may have a harder time showing off. It’s important for introverted leaders to make a concerted effort to show what they know and how they can help the company. Showcasing skills and talents where appropriate will make promotions and raises more likely in the future. 5. Make Others Aware of Personality Types Strengths Introverted leaders would do well to start the discussion in their workplace about personality types and strengths. By educating co-workers about introverts and showcasing what the personality type can bring to the table, they’ll help others understand and value them. How to Develop These Skills Armed with a knowledge of how to play up strengths and be aware of weaknesses, any introvert leader will be on the path to success at their company. But how do you develop these skills? Implementing goal-setting techniques can help any strategic leader get to where they want to be in their career. A good plan will include the following: First, pick a skill you’d like to improve on. Next, write down the skill and identify steps you’ll need to take to develop the skill. Break it down as much as possible, into smaller, easier-to-achieve steps. Set a timeline for how soon you want to accomplish the goal. Get to work! For example, if you want to start showcasing your talents more at work, you’ll first need to identify what your talents are, brainstorm a list of ways you can bring them up with co-workers, and set a timeline for when you’ll tackle your goal. If you’re wanting to take more time for self-care, you’ll need to make a list of self-care activities and schedule them into your calendar, then actually follow through. Writing about the habits you want to develop and noticing how you feel as you strive to develop a skill will help solidify the traits in your mind. As with any goal, it will take a lot of dedication to make it a habit, but the efforts will be well worth your time! Byline: Annabelle Smyth Annabelle Smyth is a freelance writer who covers everything from HR to technology and team building seminars.  Her most recent work involves partnership marketing with CMOE where she has had the opportunity to learn about strategic leadership development  and successful businesses. Social Link:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/annabelle-smyth/ Go to top Bottom-line â€" I want to help you accelerate your career â€" to achieve what you want by connecting you with your Free Instant Access to my 4 Building Blocks to Relationships eBookâ€" the backbone to your Networking success and fantastic work relationships.  Grab yours by visiting here right now! Brought to you by Dorothy Tannahill-Moran â€" dedicated to unleashing your professional potential. Introvert Whisperer