The Introverted Leaders Handbook 5 tips for leading loudly when you prefer quiet:
Let's dispel some Introvert myths. They are bad communicators: -> Listening is half of communication. They don't like to collaborate: -> 89% said they enjoyed collaboration. They don't make good leaders: -> Bill Gates, Tim Cook & Barack Obama all self-identify as Introverts.
Research confirms a strong bias for extroverted leaders. The good news: Very few people are pure introverts, as aspects of introversion fall on a spectrum. So while introverts may not get energy from engaging with groups, that doesn't mean they're incapable. Here's how:
1/ Circumstantial Superpower Wise leaders play games they're designed to win. Introverts have traits that are advantageous in the right situation: - Deliberate: Ideal in high-change environments - Calm: Perfect for chaotic, high-stress moments Choose wisely so you can...
2/ Leverage Your Strengths Observation: Great leaders see past the chatter and elevate above the drama. Listening: While others carry on, you absorb, process, and synthesize. Connect: Where others go broad, you go deep to build stronger bonds.
Ray Dalio has done personality testing w/ Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Jack Dorsey. Common traits: -> Equally systematic & creative. -> Deeply curious, independent thinkers. -> Hold people accountable to high standards. -> Clarity of the big picture down to the smallest detail.
3/ Grab a Pen The memo is mightier than the PowerPoint. Writing has proven timeless to clarify ideas and convince others of their merit. 6-page memos are the medium of choice at Amazon. With 15 quiet minutes at the beginning of a meeting to read them. Pretty good company.
4/ Systemize Your Balance Defend Your Maker Time: -> Hold big blocks for deep work Honor Your Natural Rhythms: -> Quiet blocks between meetings Stack Your Team: -> Surround yourself w/ extroverts
5/ Act Out (of Character) You can wish things weren't true. Or you can embrace reality and deal with it. Leadership tends to favor the extrovert. But good news: Introverts can fake it, and no one can tell. How? Pick big moments to be talkative, enthusiastic, and assertive.
Remember: "Extraversion is a continuum that measures the degree to which someone is enthusiastic, assertive and seeks out social interaction." Introversion is a preference, not an identity. You can change your preference when the moment demands it.
RESOURCES: The Hidden Advantage of Quiet Bosses (@AdamMGrant) https://t.co/TBn8gtAc72 Why Introverts Make Great Leaders (@zzcrockett) https://t.co/rJNjB5yQH8 To Get Ahead as an Introvert, Act Like an Extravert (@ConversationUS)
hbr.org/2010/12/the-hi…
thehustle.co/why-introverts…
neurosciencenews.com/introvert-extr…
@AdamMGrant @zzcrockett @ConversationUS In an increasingly digital and data-driven world, introverted leaders are winning. And winning at an unprecedented scale. Now is your time to make some noise. If you enjoyed this thread, follow me @dklineii for more management tactics and leadership insights.
All leaders - introverted or otherwise - benefit from bringing more intention to guiding their teams. If you want to: - Attract top-tier talent - Set better expectations - Delegate with confidence - Provide feedback that works Join us in September:
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