5 Reasons Why Introverts Make Great Leaders

In the business world, introverts are often unfairly stigmatized as being antisocial or difficult to work with. Their coworkers might misconstrue their naturally reserved dispositions to mean they're poor team players or too shy for social events like networking and happy hours. 

But these assessments couldn’t be further from the truth. Introverts make a positive impact on business. Not only are they substantial individual contributors on their teams, but they also develop into strong, balanced leaders. Just ask Bill Gates, Marissa Mayer, and Larry Page — all hugely successful senior executives and industry powerhouses, who just happen to be introverts. 

Being an effective leader who drives results doesn’t mean you have to be an outspoken “people person” who loves the spotlight. Here are five ways introverts subvert the stereotypes to guide their teams to success.

1. They’re Motivated by Quality and Productivity

Introverts measure their successes by different metrics than their more rewards-oriented counterparts. While extroverts tend to feel driven by external factors such as earning accolades and promotions, introverts are more intrinsically motivated, deriving satisfaction from maintaining a high standard of quality and leading a productive team.

2. They’re Good Listeners

Rather than just waiting for their turn to talk or thinking about what they’re going to say before the other person has finished, introverts start by listening. They pay close attention, ask clarifying questions to make sure they understand, and fully internalize the message before responding. Introverts don’t just chit-chat or make small talk to boost their social status around the office; they listen to actually learn from what others have to say. 

3. They’re Thoughtful Decision-makers

Introverts are more focused on solving problems correctly, rather than quickly. Their reflective nature allows them to think through multiple creative solutions before selecting the best one. In fact, a 2012 Harvard study found that introverts have thicker gray matter in their prefrontal cortex, the region of the brain linked to planning, decision-making, and problem-solving. So while they may not be the first ones to raise their hands with an answer, it’s not because they don’t have any; it’s because they’re evaluating the best one.

4. They’re Focused

Unlike extroverts who draw their energy from the people and things around them, introverts draw their energy from within. This means they can more easily tune out distractions like loud office chatter and other noises to turn inward and devote their attention to the task at hand. By avoiding getting sidetracked with requests and interruptions, introverts are able to prioritize the needs of their team first.

5. They Don’t Micromanage

Because introverts tend to value the opportunity to work independently, introverted leaders understand the importance of giving employees space to develop their own approach and ideas. By clearly communicating expectations ahead of time and allowing employees autonomy over the process, introverts can help their teams become more productive and better collaborators in getting to the end result.

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