6 reasons why introverts prefer to write

This post appeared on Things Career Related.

Lately I've been receiving voice-mails from one of my customers asking me to call him back to answer his questions. Not to ignore him, I have primarily responded to his calls with e-mails. This is preferable to getting caught in lengthy phone conversations during a busy time of the day.

Trying to make the best use of my time at work makes me think of six reasons why introverts--I'm included among them, in case you're wondering--sometimes prefer to write rather than converse over the phone or in person.

1. Conversations can have no limit. Have you been involved in one-sided conversations, where you're the one doing most of the listening? Although introverts are said to be good listeners, being treated as a sounding board is not their idea of fun. When communication is conducted with the buffer of e-mail, it is two-way and the introvert feels engaged in the conversation.
2. Self-promotion is easier in writing. Some people call self-promotion bragging because it means speaking highly of themselves, but I tell them it's not bragging if 1) it's true and 2) you're asked about your accomplishments. Nonetheless, self-promotion can be uncomfortable for introverts, particularly if they have to deliver it verbally. When I want to make my manager aware of an accomplishment, I shoot her an e-mail.
3. Writing is less exhausting. An introvert feels like he's on stage when he has to talk at extended lengths of time. An extravert doesn't want to leave the stage. The act of speaking is not problematic for the introvert, it's sustaining the conversations over a long period of time that drains their batteries. Writing gives introverts a welcome break from hours of speaking.
4. Writing gives introverts time to think. Introverts prefer to think before speaking, while extraverts sometimes speak before thinking. We don't blame the chatty extraverts--it's their nature. But an introvert doesn't want to be misunderstood and writing prevents this. One strength I admire about the extravert is her propensity for small talk, because I struggle with it. But when it comes to writing, I can write my thoughts in my own sweet time.
5. Writing is required to conduct a successful job search and succeed in business. That's only part of it, though. Great verbal communication skills are necessary in networking, telephone communications, and of course the interview. But when it comes to writing a résumé , cover letter, LinkedIn profile, and other correspondences, an introvert is at his best. At work the introvert feels most creative when he writes. He'd rather have time to reflect; leave the brainstorming to the extravert.
6. Writing is fun. I know I don't speak for all introverts, but some consider writing as a release of creativity and a way to express their thoughts to a larger audience. Because you blog, write novels or poems, or simply keep a diary; does that mean you're an introvert? Of course not. There are plenty of extraverts who love to write. I just happen to be one who enjoys writing every day. Call me nuts.

I remember a time in college when a schoolmate asked me what I thought was more important, verbal or written communications. I immediately said "written communications," and he argued for verbal communications. His argument was sound and he spoke compassionately about being able to address audiences real-time. As I was leaving the room, he seemed to be talking unaware of my absence.

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