The Powerful Impact of Introverts in the Workplace

Are you someone who is shy, somewhat nervous, and reserved when promoting yourself? If not, perhaps you know someone who is. Maybe you're someone like me—a socially anxious introvert.

Introverts may come off softer in interviews, but we are more powerful than you think. Introverts provide value to any team, and we thrive and do amazing things for the companies who choose to hire us.

I wouldn't want to work somewhere that didn't see strengths in the quiet people who can make a loud impact. Organizations need introverts—even the socially awkward ones. Hi. Hello.

Here is why you need to utilize your introverts and not miss the opportunity to have them on your team.

1. We plan ahead

Introverts are like great chess players: We try to visualize every possible outcome and the move that might come next. We are strategic, and ultimately, always striving to be prepared. Planners are key team members because they're gifted at thinking ahead and prioritizing to meet goals.

2. Details are important to us

Introverts, not to mention socially-anxious people, are highly detail-oriented. We're observant, which lends a hand in creating accurate and easy-to-follow documentation, tracking errors, problems, mistakes, and defects. When we can design, organize, and make things as perfect as possible, it gives us the satisfaction of stability.

3. We are creative

We are visual and intuitive. According to studies, most creative people tend to be introverts because we are very comfortable with our alone time. And solitude gives us a chance to flush out the world around us and let our minds wander.

“Solitude is required for the unconscious to process and unravel problems. Others inspire us, information feeds us, practice improves our performance, but we need quiet time to figure things out, to emerge with new discoveries, to unearth original answers.” - Ester Buchholz (Psychologist, psychoanalyst, and author of The Call of Solitude)

“Solitude is a crucial ingredient often to creativity.” - Susan Cain (Lecturer and author of Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking)

Every organization can use creative introverts on their teams because we are experts at coming up with ideas, taking logical approaches, and looking at situations from all angles.

4. Empathy is one of our natural traits

Introverts have an innate ability to sense the energy in a room. Our observant characteristics make it so we can detect the feelings of others. We have a softer touch that allows us to read one's emotions and we're less likely to evoke negative feelings in anyone. Our ability also makes us more conscientious, understanding, and soothing when someone is upset and talks to us.

5. We have a calm demeanor

Introverts evaluate their surroundings, so they instinctively possess the ability to remain tranquil. Certain social situations, like meetings are generally difficult for us, but you'd never know it. We are experts at keeping our calm demeanor—even in intensely stressful situations. A positive attitude in stressful situations can be very effective to make sure that our peers and we can still get work done efficiently while reducing anxiety; people can continue to work without any negative energy in the room. We are a stabilizing force.

Now, don't confuse our calm demeanor with lack of passion—we listen, we analyze, and we process before making informed decisions.

6. We don't want to be in the limelight

It's common that extroverts have a louder voice, tend to be more assertive and demonstrate a need to be recognized. Introverts don't desire to steal anyone's thunder or credit, but if we can help someone in any way, we find it rewarding because it creates opportunities for others to grow. We might not like the full focus to be on us, but we are thoughtful, considerate, and put others first. We're happy to help others. We won't threaten anyone when it comes to competing in the workplace because we don't need to show off. We're easy to be around, and we'll do our best work on our own.

7. We have beautiful and gentle souls

Introverts have naturally amiable and peaceful personalities. Our gentleness makes it unlikely for us to lose our temper or have emotional outbursts when we're frustrated. We are not likely to start fights when it comes to confrontation and will likely talk things through and try to come up with a solution to the problem. If you ever have a question or require help, our gentleness makes us easy to talk to, trust, and approach without hesitation. When people are gentle, they tend to practice acts of love and kindness in every situation. I love this characteristic in myself and other introverts.

8. We make genuine connections

Introverts don't generally come off as outgoing, but this doesn't mean we don't form meaningful relationships. We like to talk on a one-on-one basis because it gives us the opportunity to listen and connect on a more personal level. We value quality conversations that help us understand others. Introverts care about people and make wonderful friends, partners, and co-workers. If we do form a bond in some way with you, our interactions will be more profound.

9. We aim for success but don't need to compete to prove our worth

Everyone knows and loves an introvert, and we know introverts are pretty awesome, but there's that doubt when it comes down to competitive, fast-paced work environments. You don't need to worry with an introvert. Why? Because we take the time to know people so we can work together in harmony. We want to see our friends succeed, we love to help you utilize your strengths and conquer your weaknesses, and if there is some way we can aid, we will support and work with you in any way we can. Introverts put their team first.

10. Most of us are talented writers

Introverts often feel like they write better than they speak. I know I do.

Introverts are great communicators because we analyze what is important before including it in documentation or presentation slides. We edit and review our work because we want it to be perfect and free from error. If you need a piece written out—instructions, test plans, a slide show, leave it to an introvert to make sure that everything is captured.

11. We are team-oriented

Introverts feel empowered being a contributing part of a team. When we put our planning, observation, and creative skills to work in a team environment, we unleash our potential. We shine at collaborating, supporting, and listening to the ideas of others making sure everyone is heard, and every idea can be talked through and decided on for the fullest potential.

Take some time to think about the individuals in your life or who you work with who are introverts. Have you ever had a difficult time approaching them or asking them for help? I bet not. You don't need outgoing and bold people to transform a company. There's a great deal of strength that can be brought by the humble, modest, gracious, and understanding people who are introverted. Every company needs the soft touch and calmness of introverts.

The next time you are looking for someone new to join your organization, consider hiring an introvert. We bring unique talents and diverse perspectives to the team.

To my fellow introverts, remember to always stay true to your authentic self.