Courage and brilliant communication skills are two character traits that everyone immediately associates with extroverts. On the other hand, if you are asked to imagine an introvert, you will likely think of someone who is quieter, more reserved, or even shy. Considering these qualities, how to build a career for an introvert?
ContentHow to build a career as an introvert: embrace your differencesWhat are the benefits of being an introvert at work?How to build a career as an introvert: use your unique skills
It may seem like extroversion is the key to success in the world, but there is tremendous power that comes from those who draw their energy from within, especially in the workplace. WomanEL will share her secrets with you.
How to build a career as an introvert: embrace your differences
“There are definitely many good reasons why a person with self-confidence can be a great asset to a business. But that doesn't negate the importance of hard work from other team members,” explains Robbie Bryant, careers expert at Open Study College. Because if you have the qualifications, the necessary experience, or are simply ready to take on the task at hand, there is no reason why an introvert can't succeed.
“Remember, being the most confident person in the room is not always the secret to success,” he adds. “Yes, it may get you some attention initially, but in the end, the person whose work matters the most will always be the most successful.”
As psychologist Kalanit Ben-Ari explains, introversion “ is not associated with shyness or anxiety… you can also be confident, determined and assertive.”
“Many personality tests include a scale from 'introverted' to 'extroverted' to describe a person's tendencies,” she explains. “We can all move up and down depending on our environment. For example, someone may appear extroverted at work, but remain an introvert when it comes to close relationships.”
And introversion is not just about being “shy” or quiet. Generally speaking, introverts tend to turn inward—for recharging, reflection, and self-regulation—for their resources. They usually don't see large social events as recharging. In fact, introverts generally prefer a small number of meaningful friendships rather than a large number.
Dr. Ben-Ari continues: “They have a lower threshold for stimulation, so they may feel more overwhelmed by external stimulation. And Carl Jung, who first identified these personality types as the way people get energy, said that introverts are energized by their inner world, while extroverts need to be recharged by others.”
What are the benefits of being an introvert at work?
An introvert has unique traits for the work environment, Source: freepik.com
Scientists have recently identified four key behavioral traits that are most likely to indicate success in the workplace.
- The ability to make decisions quickly and convincingly;
- Be insightful and focused on achieving business results;
- Highly adaptable and open to change;
- Achieve consistent and reliable results rather than irregular peaks of success.
And, as Dr. Ben-Ari says, an introvert is much more likely to check all of these boxes. “Introverts tend to be more independent,” she says. “They can reflect and be self-aware, and they are resourceful. They work well in small groups and have a rich inner world. They are focused. And, most importantly, they know how to listen.”
How to build a career as an introvert: use your unique skills
It seems that the key to career success for introverts is choosing your work environment carefully. “Try to work in a place where independent thinking is valued, such as working in small groups,” says Dr. Ben-Ari. “Choose to work in places that require reflection, creativity and calm. And remember: introverts make great leaders.”
Use your strengths, such as good self-awareness, to lead people. Ask for small meetings, as this is where introverts come into their own. Use your observation and self-awareness skills to communicate with your boss.
Don't just focus on small talk; Learn to delegate as you are likely to take on too much if you are self-sufficient and independent. And be sure to give yourself a balance of recharging before and after work.
Focusing your efforts on one important person is also great advice. If you don't feel comfortable working in large spaces, schedule one-on-one meetings with your manager and make sure that time is used to discuss anything important to you. Not only will this help you gain attention, but it will also build confidence.
But most importantly, Dr. Ben-Ari advises introverts to trust their intuition, be sincere, and speak their mind. “Take action where it matters and bring your voice, ideas and vision to the company,” she says. “Do this and you will shine.”
To succeed in your job (new or current), you need a skills passport. What it is? We talked about it here.
