Flipping the Script: Why Introverts Will Excel in the Hybrid Workplace

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For many introverts, working remotely during the pandemic offered a chance for them to shine in a world that by and large perceives extroverts to be more successful. Almost overnight, skills like the ability to take control of a room became nearly obsolete, while the ability to work reliably and with little supervision emerged as critical competencies.

The switch to remote working also put introverts on a much more even playing field with their extroverted coworkers. There’s no question that it’s far easier to speak up on a Zoom call than in a room full of people, where the biggest personalities can easily outshine the quieter ones.???

But how will introverts fare as we transition back to the office? Certainly, a return to working full-time in an office won’t suit them — but that approach doesn’t appeal to extroverts either. In fact, Truity found that 86% of introverts and 79% of extroverts prefer either part- or full-time work-from-home arrangements, due to benefits like more flexibility, better work-life balance, and time saved commuting.

A hybrid model, therefore, may offer an ideal set-up that meets the needs of all workers, regardless of their personality type. And it may also allow introverted workers to continue to maximize their potential even when they go into the office, but only if the workplace is redesigned with some of their needs in mind.

This article explores how a hybrid approach can benefit introverted workers, even more so than a fully remote work arrangement. I’ll discuss the following:?

• Why extroverts aren’t always better leaders
• The surprising ways that introverts excelled during the pandemic
• Why introverts don’t actually want to work from home forever
• The trend toward a more purpose-driven office
• How the hybrid office may offer the best of both worlds

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