Believe it or not, I’m an introvert and resonate with everything in this post by Dan Rockwell. He is spot on! Over the years I have coached some wonderful and gifted leaders who are introverts. They are certainly different than extroverts, but can, nonetheless, make a significant difference with anything they are tasked with leading.
Dan shares some very helpful strategies in working with, or for, leaders who are introverts. YOU may be a struggling introvert in a world of extrovert! Read on.
Guest post by Dan Rockwell
Introverts thrive when you adapt to their strengths. I know better, but I screwed up a meeting with an introvert. Here’s the refresher I gave to myself afterward.
10 Ways Leaders Fail Introverts:
- Ask unexpected questions.
- Expect frequent social interaction.
- Hold surprise team-building exercises or impromptu meetings.
- Wait for them to speak first.
- Push them into spontaneous conversations.
- Call on them to speak publicly without preparation.
- Locate them in chaotic environments.
- Interrupt them frequently.
- Share new ideas openly in group settings.
- Force them into spotlight.
Bonus: Expect them to always work on teams.
The 3 Best Things You Can Do for Introverts:
#1. Provide think time before seeking input.
Extroverts love tossing around ideas because they think while they talk. Quiet people think before they speak. Don’t expect spontaneous input concerning new ideas and unexpected projects.
Send meeting agendas the day before meetings.
Ask the same questions habitually. For example, at the beginning of every one-on-one, ask, “What will make this meeting useful to you?” Recurring questions enable people to show up prepared.
Introverts thrive when they know what to expect.
#2. Allow reflection time before commitments.
Explain what you’re thinking about and why it matters. Make tentative decisions. Release pressure by allowing reflection time after conversations. Say, “Take some time to reflect. Let’s finalize these plans in a couple days.” Set a time to follow up.
#3. Use email.
Email allows autonomy.
Explain when you need a reply. If a reply isn’t forthcoming touch base in person. Learn about their boundaries and establish mutual accountability.
Tip: Pull quiet people out of the weeds occasionally so they can view the whole picture.
How do leaders fail introverts?
What are the best ways to maximize introverts on the team?
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