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Key Takeaways
- Discover where you fall on the introversion spectrum and understand how this influences your leadership style.
- Learn how to make the most of your introverted leadership style while tackling challenges in workplaces that often favor extroversion.
- Explore practical measures tailored to female leaders, addressing gender-specific biases and expectations.
What Is an Introvert?
Leadership often favors extroverted traits like visibility, charisma, assertiveness, quick decision making, and an outgoing personality.
But progressive workplaces recognize the enormous value of introverted leaders, whose quieter, more thoughtful approach offers a refreshing contrast to the traditional extroverted mold.
In her Expert Interview with Mindtools, Jennifer Kahnweiler, an executive coach and author of "The Introverted Leader: Building on Your Quiet Strength," defined introverted leaders as, “More inner-directed versus outer-directed, there's sort of an inner pull, a processing within. They tend to be more calm and more reflective... they think before they speak, and they're just more reflective in nature.”
But it’s not a simple case of whether you are or are not an introvert. There’s an introversion spectrum, and knowing where you fall on that spectrum can help you to embrace your natural strengths – and understand how you can overcome any challenges related to your natural preferences.
And there are elements of introversion and its challenges that especially impact women in business, sometimes as result of gender biases.
We’ve designed a self-assessment for women leaders to show where you most likely sit on that spectrum, from true introvert to extroverted introvert.
Introversion needn't be a barrier to successful leadership.
Where Are You on the Introversion Scale?
Coming up are 14 statements that indicate where you fall on the Introversion Scale. Reflect on each statement and choose the option that best represents your daily experiences. Remember, there are no right or wrong answers!
How to Lead as a True Introvert
As a True Introvert, you:
- Think deeply and offer thoughtful insights.
- Make careful, well-considered decisions.
- Build trust by listening and observing.
- Thrive in quiet, focused environments.
- Earn respect through actions rather than words.
- Stay calm and composed under pressure.
Making the Most of Your True Introvert Strengths
1. Deep listening is your superpower: your ability to tune into others makes you a trusted, insightful leader.
2. Plan for success: structure and preparation bring out your best. Protect time for deep work and reflection.
3. Own your achievements: visibility doesn’t have to mean self-promotion. Find ways to share your work in ways that feel natural.
4. Mentor one-on-one: your preference for meaningful conversations makes you a strong mentor and coach.
Overcoming the Challenges of True Introverts
Workplaces often reward visibility and quick decision making, which may not align with your strengths. Overly social environments can feel draining, and self-promotion may be uncomfortable.
Consider these tips for managing such challenges:
- Block recharge time before and after intense collaboration.
- Prepare talking points for meetings to feel more confident in group discussions.
- Find allies who can help you to highlight your work.
How to Lead as a Balanced Introvert
As a Balanced Introvert, you:
- Know when to listen and when to speak.
- Weigh options carefully before making decisions.
- Value deep, meaningful connections over small talk.
- Engage confidently but take time to process ideas.
- Manage your energy to avoid burnout.
- Adapt easily to different situations and leadership styles.
Making the Most of Your Balanced Introvert Strengths
1. Lean into your adaptability: you can switch between solo work and collaboration. Use this to your advantage.
2. Manage your energy: be mindful of overcommitting socially. Balance connection with downtime.
3. Flex your communication style: know when to plan and when to go with the flow. This makes you an effective, dynamic communicator.
4. Use empathy to build trust: your ability to listen and engage deeply creates strong team relationships.
Overcoming the Challenges of Balanced Introverts
You may feel pressure to always be “on,” leading to burnout. Others might misinterpret your shifting energy as inconsistency. To manage this:
- Set boundaries to protect both focus time and social engagement.
- Tune into your self-awareness to recognize when to step up or step back.
- Communicate preferences with colleagues to ensure a work environment that suits you.
- Pick projects that balance independence and teamwork to bring out your best.
How to Lead as an Extroverted Introvert
As an Extroverted Introvert, you:
- Enjoy people but need solo time.
- Speak up when it matters.
- Think fast but reflect when needed.
- Build authentic, meaningful relationships.
- Feel comfortable in the spotlight but don’t seek it.
- Balance visibility with introspection.
Making the Most of Your Extrovert Introvert Strengths
- Balance "on/off" time: engage fully but schedule recharge moments to maintain your energy.
- Use visibility wisely: being seen is a strength. Make sure it aligns with your goals.
- Be intentional about networking: focus on quality over quantity in professional relationships.
- Know when to reflect: quick thinking is a strength, but don’t rush big decisions.
Overcoming the Challenges Facing Extroverted Introverts
You might overcommit socially, leaving little time to recharge. If you've developed extroverted habits due to workplace expectations, make sure they align with your true needs.
- Pay attention to energy levels and schedule downtime.
- Set clear priorities so reflection remains non-negotiable.
- Be mindful of expectations. Are you acting out of preference or habit?
- Use your flexibility strategically to lead in a way that’s both visible and sustainable.
Note:
This assessment intended for illustrative purposes only, but it draws on authoritative research by psychologists and behavioral scientists.
Today, experts tend to speak about introversion and extroversion as a spectrum, rather than in binary terms, defining points on that spectrum in accordance with preferences related to decision making, energy management, and comfort levels in group situations.
