Can introverts be leaders? Leaders are often described in terms synonymous with extroversion: outgoing, gregarious, forceful, dynamic. But often, the best leaders are introverts who possess a quiet power. Oprah Winfrey, Michael Jordan, Warren Buffett, and Ruth Bader Ginsberg are just a few examples.
Remember, you don't need to be loud to stand out as a leader, but you do need to have presence. So how are you showing up, how are you perceived, and what influence and impact are you making in the encounters you have with other people?
Being an introvert can be extremely attractive to some people. Introversion can seem mysterious and intriguing, especially if it pairs with qualities such as kindness or being a caring person. If you are an introvert, someone may be attracted to the fact that you appear humble and down to earth.
Quiet leaders are often thoughtful and reflective, concentrating on the task at hand and taking their time to reach a view, rather than jumping to conclusions. They will speak when they have something important to add, rather than speaking for the sake of it. Each of these can be really valuable qualities.
Introverts Are Loyal
Because every social and romantic relationship is a higher energy investment for introverts, they tend to be extremely loyal and appreciate loyalty in return. Because of their investment, they might see the loss of a relationship or it being in turmoil as more of a threat than you do.
Quiet people have power because they are willing to spend more time and energy on self-reflection, which helps to know oneself, practice self, stimulate potential, and improve self-personality.
When you hear the word introvert, you might think of someone who's shy or quiet and prefers to be alone. While that may be true for some introverts, there's much more to this personality type. Whether you're an introvert or an extrovert all depends on how you process the world around you.
While some leaders are boisterously charismatic, the Quiet Leader is more reserved and reflective. Typical Quiet Leaders strike a healthy balance between determination and humility. They know deep down that they are driven to lead and push themselves and others to high levels of performance and achievement.
Introverts are actually great team leaders, but they are also successful when working independently. Since introverts have often struggled to get their true talents seen and appreciated, they are generally quite respectful of the different working styles and preferences of others. Introverts don't give up easily.
Quiet people tend to be less impulsive, and they consider decisions from multiple angles before acting. They move with a deliberate strength and don't jump into situations easily. This can help you make better decisions, especially about what to say.
Their objectivity and the ability to be less likely to be affected by certain emotional cues make an introvert to appear intimidating to other people and make them likely to be manipulated or swayed.
Studies show that introverted or shy men are likely to be attracted to both shy and outgoing women, while extroverted men may have a preference for outgoing women.
Shy people don't think they're more important than others
But it is a trait that most of us find very likable and attractive in others. In fact, psychologists have consistently found that both men and women rate humility as one of the most desirable traits in a partner.
Introverted leaders are more accepting
And they're more likely to accept those differences and work with people, rather than continue to state how they'd prefer to get work done. They are more likely to understand someone and understand how to get that person to feel included as a member of the team.
Introverts possess many qualities that help them become great leaders, but they also can be great bosses by taking an introverted approach to hiring, mentoring, customer service, and other key management functions.
In fact, it has been found [83] that people who present themselves as reserved, silent, and withdrawn, are prone to demonstrate lower self-esteem. They are also less concerned with self-promotion.
You're the silent type
You'll find plenty of misconceptions about quiet people, e.g. being labeled as introverts, socially awkward and so on. This isn't necessarily true, and while not all quiet people are necessarily smart, highly intelligent people will often refrain from speaking if they are accessing a situation.
Being quiet doesn't mean that you are shy or insecure. Quiet confident people exude an energy of self-assurance and strength, which is very attractive to other people. It might be quiet, but it's powerful! It also shows that you are comfortable in your own skin.
Society has long had a bias that great leaders must be bold or assertive rather than shy or introverted. But both history and research have shown us that shyness can shine in leadership roles and brings a value that assertiveness may lack.
An introverted leader can guide, mentor, network, and make important decisions just as well as an extroverted leader. The main difference between an introverted leader and an extroverted leader is the way they lead and the principles and practices they embrace while leading.
Introverts lack the social exuberance and activity levels of extroverts. They tend to seem quiet, low-key, deliberate, and less involved in the social world.
1. ESFJ. People who fit the ESFJ personality type can usually be recognized by their big hearts and kindly manner. ESFJs are warm and welcoming and their love of tradition means they value good old-fashioned manners highly.
INTJ: One of The Rarest, Loneliest Personality Types [Introverts and Writing]
ISFJ. ISFJ's are quiet, conscientious, and kind. They are responsible in nature and are committed to meeting their obligations. They have a tendency to put the needs of others above their own.