How the Best Leaders Lead Extraverts and Introverts Effectively
Leading a team can be a challenging task, especially when that team is made up of individuals with a mix of personality types. One of the key differences among team members is whether they are introverts or extraverts. While these terms are often used to describe how people interact with the world around them, they can also have a significant impact on how people respond to leadership and communication styles.
As a leader, it’s important to understand these differences and adapt your leadership style to best support and engage both introverts and extraverts. Here are the differences:
What is an introvert?
Characteristics that society commonly attributes to introverts: systematic, structured, analytical, logical, cautious, preference for planning, thrives on independent work and quiet reflectionBeing an introvert is not about being quiet or shy, it is more about how a person approaches people and tasksIntroverts can be creative, passionate, energetic, and articulate, just like extravertsWhat is an extravert?
Characteristics that society commonly attributes to extraverts: outgoing, assertive, energetic, and enjoy interacting with othersExtraverts gain energy from socializing and being around othersExtraverts can be creative, passionate, and logical, just like introvertsWhy introverts and extraverts make great employees and leaders:
Introverts:
Good listenersExcellent critical thinkersLess emotional in stressful situationsGood at exploring problems from multiple angles and getting to the bottom lineConscientious about their work and ask the right questions to fully understand tasksEmphasize quality and accuracy in their workSet high standards for themselvesMore compliant with following rules and proceduresSuperior written communication skillsDetail orientedExtraverts:
Confident and assertiveGood at networking and building relationshipsEnergetic and enthusiasticComfortable speaking up and presenting in front of groupsGood at adapting to new situations and taking on challengesAble to think on their feet and make quick decisionsProactive in seeking out new opportunitiesEffective ways to lead both the introvert and extravert successfully:
When leading an extravert: Provide extraverts with opportunities to step into leadership roles, such as leading a team or presenting to a group. You can also provide them with challenges that allow them to stretch their skills and abilities.
When leading introvert: Encourage introverts to participate by actively seeking out their input and ideas, and giving them the time and space they need to process and reflect before speaking up. You can also consider more collaborative approaches to decision-making that allow introverts to contribute in ways that are more comfortable for them, such as through writing or small group discussions.
When leading both an extravert and introvert feedback is important: The most successful leaders know they need to provide regular feedback and support to both to keep them on track. As a leader, provide regular check-ins and one-on-one meetings to give team members the opportunity to discuss their progress and receive feedback. Additionally, you can offer support and resources to help them overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
When leading be flexible and adapt your leadership style: The best leaders are able to adapt their leadership style to the needs and preferences of their team. This can involve being open to trying new approaches and being willing to adjust your leadership style. Therefore, by being flexible and open to different approaches, you can create a more inclusive and effective team culture that values the strengths and contributions of all team members.
In conclusion, it’s important for leaders to understand the differences between introverts and extraverts and adapt their leadership style accordingly. While extraverts may respond well to a more directive and assertive leadership style, introverts may prefer a more collaborative and inclusive approach.
Lead From Within: The best leaders are those who are able to effectively lead and support both introverts and extraverts, creating a team that is more cohesive, effective, and successful.
#1 N A T I O N A L B E S T S E L L E R
The Leadership Gap
What Gets Between You and Your Greatness
After decades of coaching powerful executives around the world, Lolly Daskal has observed that leaders rise to their positions relying on a specific set of values and traits. But in time, every executive reaches a point when their performance suffers and failure persists. Very few understand why or how to prevent it.
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