Just because you are an introvert, doesn’t mean you cannot be a good leader

Friday August 19, 2016 , 4 min Read

An introvert is a person who . Such people are more comfortable being by themselves rather than with large groups of individuals. Often, introverts are mistaken for being shy or under-confident loners who dread being with others, but nothing could be further from the truth. Introverts just gain energy from solitude and have a different style of social interaction. This lack of knowledge about the fine line between being an introvert and being shy is what makes most people avoid using the words ‘leader’ and ‘introvert’ together in a sentence.

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An introvert is a person who thrives in solitude. Such people are more comfortable being by themselves rather than with large groups of individuals. Often, introverts are mistaken for being shy or under-confident loners who dread being with others, but nothing could be further from the truth. Introverts just gain energy from solitude and have a different style of social interaction. This lack of knowledge about the fine line between being an introvert and being shy is what makes most people avoid using the words ‘leader’ and ‘introvert’ together in a sentence.

A leader is described as a person who ‘has the power or ability to command a group towards achieving a goal’. Contrary to popular belief, studies indicate that at least 40 per cent of leaders are introverts. This is attributed to their ability to adapt themselves to changing needs. Here are some reasons why introverts can make great leaders:

Listening skills

Introverts are good at listening to others speak. They believe in thinking before speaking, and this lets them consider the other person’s point of view before responding. Their composed attitude and their measured words ensure that they are heard even above all the din and chatter – a characteristic of a good leader.

Cautious approach

Introverts do not like leaving things to chance and consider various scenarios before taking a decision. Being prudent is an essential quality in a good leader that can stand in good stead especially during difficult times.

Calm demeanour

Their characteristic calm and quiet manner lets them stay low key. Their soft-spoken and reassuring presence makes them an asset in times of a crisis or during heated arguments. They are excellent at prepping themselves ahead of an important presentation or meeting without giving in to negative thoughts.

Ability to work alone

Given a choice, introverts would prefer to work alone rather than enter into a partnership. This helps them stay focused on their goals and often leads them to come up with revolutionary ideas.

Persistence

Introverts are extremely persistent when it comes to achieving their goals. They make good with whatever resources and information they have. The ability to handle this kind of uncertainty is desirable in a leader if he has to take his team to success.

Creativity

Their preference for solitude inspires creativity and hones their problem-solving skills. This helps them come up with creative solutions to problems much quicker and more efficiently than others.

Openness to challenges

Introverts are not just quiet, but also competitive. In fact, most of the times, they can be found challenging themselves to do better than their previous performances. Such motivation in a leader is sure to rub off on the team or employees eventually.

Never make the mistake of thinking that introverts are passive. Combined with a team of proactive employees, you will be surprised at how an introverted leader drives home success.