My last article on Introverted Leadership was one of my most read writings on LinkedIn with almost 50K views and 800 shares, it has prompted me to do another one on this topic. Link to the first one, here.
So, what qualities set Introverted Leaders apart. Here are some basic ones to spot besides the fact that they are highly private people, they indulge in quiet introspection and are highly empathetic. These traits make them adept at observing people, their subtle behaviors, cues to their responses and reactions to situations. Explains why they are always inclined to look at situations in a multi-dimensional perspective than a singular lens. Here are few more to deliberate on:
They are humble and shy
Introverts set themselves apart by being the humblest of the lot. They are highly sensitive taking credit for their accomplishments. You will often find them praising and encouraging others.
They are perpetual thinkers and analysts
They are innately analytical in their minds and that makes them evaluating every situation with pros and cons, while it is ongoing and more importantly way past even when its over. They are analyzing pre event, event and post event. It helps them gauge things better and they tend to think ad nauseam.
They handle ambiguity better
Because of their innate ability to think and overthink, they are more equipped to understand the shades of grey in business and and in doing so also account for strategies to account for those very grey situations. They will always think of Plan B with Plan A but also C, D, E and so on, just to minimize risks. This is one of the fundamental differentiators for them to outdo their extrovert counterparts. Introverts are less sure with more nuanced strategies while extroverts are more sure with rigid plans.
They like to work alone too
As much as they understand the need to work with people and alongside teammates, they also like to go alone in their quite zones and times for deep thinking and bring back something of value to their teams, work, the whole ecosystem. They flourish when they can go away deeper into the woods to reflect and come back with some insights to meaningfully contribute.
And its impossible to wrap anything up on Introverts without quoting Susan Cain. So, here goes, “So when introverts assume the observer role, as when they write novels, or contemplate unified field theory-or fall quiet at dinner parties-they are not demonstrating a failure of will or a lack of energy. They are simply doing what they are constitutionally suited for.” And may I add physiologically too.
