Have you ever been in a team meeting where you want to say something but other louder voices stop you? Or its the third time you have tried to get your point across and find yourself interrupted again, spoken over or ignored? If this resonates with you then welcome to the world of those who have a preference for introversion. Its my journey. Surprisingly to me I am often taken for more of an extrovert. As someone who has led companies, organisations and teams for much of my career this assumption comes I think from the fact that in my role I have to cross the room and make the first move in a conversation.
However, as a leader who identifies as an introvert it does give me some good insights into what helps introverts become the leaders they have the potential to be.
To lead well in any leadership role it is crucial you can communicate and clearly. This can be tricky if you continually wondering how good you really are and worry that people might find you out. Otherwise known as Imposters Syndrome.
If you hid large social gatherings slightly terrifying, the thought of networking brings you out in a rash and your idea of a great night at is an intimate meal with one or two close friends. It is likely you have an untreated preference.
“Before you can become an authentic leader, you have to know who you are. That’s your true north: your most deeply held beliefs, your values, the principles you lead by, and what inspires you.” Bill George, Harvard professor and former Medtronic CEO
Tips that Enable you to Access your Super Powers
The following are tips I can give you if you are an introverted leader. Tips that have helped me leverage the skills I have as an introverted leader:
1. Be prepared. – Go into a meeting with a plan of how you will navigate it and with the personal understanding of what is the worst that can happen if you open your mouth and speak is essential.
2. Figure out what your limiting beliefs are and then create new beliefs. Hint they are generally the opposite of your current belief! Then practice your new belief regularly.
3. Find one of your extroverted colleagues or friends go and buy them a coffee and ask questions (closed ones!) to find out about their world. Then give them an insight into your world. Let them know what its like to prefer introversion.
4. In meetings, understand your colleagues, friends and team members with a preference for extroversion will process their thoughts by speaking them out loud. When they do start talking unlike you they are at the beginning of their thought process. They are not presenting their conclusions as you would when you speak out loud. You process in your head your extroverted neighbours do not.
5. Your deeply held values are what keeps you on course. Trust your values you have spent a long time reflecting and refining them. Stand on them as you lead. People appreciate your deeply held beliefs, they are the compass that keeps you on track.
Embracing the journey of an introverted leader is not just about overcoming challenges; it’s about discovering and harnessing your unique strengths to inspire and lead with authenticity. Your path may be quieter, but it is no less impactful. Understanding who you are, embracing your introversion, and leveraging your deeply held values can transform the way you lead and influence those around you.
As you continue to navigate the complexities of leadership, remember that the journey to becoming an authentic leader is deeply personal and infinitely rewarding. It requires courage to remain true to yourself, to question and replace limiting beliefs, and to engage in meaningful exchanges that bridge the gap between introversion and extroversion. Your ability to reflect, to listen deeply, and to lead from a place of values and integrity sets you apart in a world that often prioritizes volume over substance.
If you’ve found resonance in this journey, or if you’re seeking to unlock your full potential as an introverted leader, know that you’re not alone. The path to embracing your introversion as a strength is one I’ve walked and continue to explore.
I would love to coach you to a place where you are confident in your leadership abilities and style. Don’t let your voice be drowned out by the noise. Let’s embark on a journey of discovery and growth, where your introversion is not a barrier but a bridge to authentic leadership.
Contact me today, and let’s start crafting your path to becoming the leader you are meant to be. Your journey is unique, your leadership invaluable. Together, we can unlock the potential that lies within your quiet strength.