Advice for Succeeding as an Introvert in the Workplace

The main difference between an introverted entrepreneur and an extroverted one is where they get their energy. Introvert tends to get their power from being alone or with a small group of trusted friends. Introverts have the potential to be very social and confident individuals, but they often prefer to live deep in thought, value their privacy, and enjoy occasional solitude. At the same time, an extrovert tends to get their energy from being in a large crowd of people. Being an introvert doesn’t automatically make you bad at social situations, just like being an extrovert doesn’t automatically make you good at them. However, there are some unique ways that an introvert can leverage their particular set of skills.

An Introvert Listens

An introvert is more likely to be self-aware and attentive to their environment than an extrovert is. This allows them to listen and find out what the client or their colleagues need. Their advanced listening skills make them detail-oriented and improve their chance of success. The downside of this is that introverts are more likely to focus on their own mistakes and internal criticism. One way to deal with this is by recording and remembering times or ways you have succeeded or learned from failure whenever you make a mistake.

An Introvert Researches

An introvert is more likely to take the time to research various solutions to entrepreneurship problems. This skill allows introverts to make rational decisions that will help grow their business. The downside of this is that an introvert might get “stuck” researching something instead of making an important business decision. One way to deal with this is by setting a deadline for the decision rather than simply getting stuck in a research spiral.

An Introvert Speaks

When an introvert takes the time to talk about something, people take the time to listen. Introverts often have a reputation for thoughtful communication and meaningful contribution rather than simply adding noise. The downside of this is that an introvert might not be prepared for the swivel of everyone’s attention to them. One way to deal with this is by preparing for that attention by practicing. It won’t seem silly to your mirror, and you’ll seem more confident in business.

An Introvert Adapts

It’s essential to be open and honest about who you are, not just with your co-workers but also with yourself. While it’s okay to adapt your approach to changing environments and sprucing up your communication style to different people, it is not healthy to transform into an utterly different person. Changing yourself to be more like someone else will not make things easier; if anything, it will only set you back. It will only result in more frustration and will be a drain on your energy. Even if you do think that someone else is fantastic, taking notes from someone and developing the best habits they have is not the same as pretending to them. Instead of feeling like you have to be a different person at work, take the time to get to really understand who you are as an individual, what your strengths are, what you value, and how you want to present those values. Then accept yourself for who you are and be honest with yourself and your colleagues.

Being an entrepreneur can provide a unique set of challenges. However, it can be a rewarding experience for introverts if they capitalize on their skills. Despite outward appearances, this isn’t an extrovert’s world. By taking the necessary steps to feel secure in the workplace, introverts can find ways to get ahead at work and succeed in their careers.