Unveiling the Superpowers of Introverts in the Workplace: Why They Excel in Leadership and Productivity

Both extroverts and introverts bring with them their unique strengths and gifts to the workplace. In many fields such as consulting and investment banking, there is a tendency to spotlight the extroverted traits. And when asked about leadership, extroverted traits are often highlighted. However, study assessed the performance of CEOs and found that introverted CEOs outperform their extroverted counterparts. In another study conducted by Professor Adam Grant in 2010, the results suggested that introverts made more effective leaders. Here are some superpowers of introverts that set them apart from everyone else, even in industries that value extroverted characteristics.

1.     Introverts are great listeners.

 Introverts don’t jump at the chance to speak. They usually prefer to stay out of the spotlight, this allow whoever they are speaking to have more opportunities to share about themselves and their problems. As a result, they can capture information that may be overlooked and do not jump to conclusions as readily.  This in turn make their collegaues or team mates feel heard and valued making introverts not just great team players but empathetic leaders. 

2.     Introverts get s*!t done.

 Because introverts enjoy spending time alone, they typically have a longer time for focus and this translates to increased productivity. Also because introverts tend to avoid small talk, in avoiding the in-between chit chat or that after work happy hour, they tend to stick to the task at hand and focus on getting (more) work done.

3.     Introverts build deep relationships.

 Introverts are natural empaths. They have a natural tendency to read a room, empathise with others, thinking before speaking so they can gain a deeper understanding of the person or situation they are engaged with. Therefore, relationships that are built are usually more meaningful and this translates to stronger change management & stakeholder management skills.

Quiet people have the loudest mind

Stephen Hawking

4.     Introverts are good problem solvers.

 As deep thinkers, introverts are more likely to analyze situations more thoroughly, thinking about the second order consequences when solving problem. And because introverts derive energy internally more than external sources, they are less likely to be swayed by external environment or opinions in delivering solutions. Introverts’ brain pathways favor the thinking mode where several solutions to individual problems are played out in their mind simultaneously. This helps introverts come up with comprehensive and better thought-out answers to problems.

5.     Introverts are self-reflective.

 While there is a flip side to this superpower, but when tapped on, the ability to self-reflect often means when given feedback, they will think through the feedback and if it is applicable, they will take feedback onboard. This is extremely valuable as a leader, as only through self-reflection can the leader strengthen his/her awareness and help identify areas of change and growth for the betterment of the team or organization.

6.     Introverts are adaptable.

 Introverts working in extroverted industries are able to overcome their natural tendencies and adapt to their work environments. Introverts are able to get out of their comfort zones and build the necessary skills they require to thrive in the loud world they live in. Because of their ability to adapt, they are more likely to succeed in new projects and environments and develop the social skills they require.

Introverts possess a wealth of strengths that often go unnoticed in extrovert-centric industries. From their attentive listening skills to their deep problem-solving abilities, introverts are powerful assets in any workplace. 

As an introvert, you have the potential to thrive in an extroverted world, and coaching is the key to unlocking that potential. It's not about changing who you are; it's about embracing your true self and learning how to navigate the world with confidence and authenticity.

 Are you ready to step into your power as an introvert and achieve your goals? Explore the transformative possibilities of coaching here and embark on a journey towards personal growth and success.