What do you think?
Rate this book
Introvert's Complete Career Guide, The
What do Elon Musk, Warren Buffet, Marissa Mayer, and Bill Gates all have in common outside of being wildly successful? They are all introverts. In today's fast-paced, unstable workplace achieving success requires speaking up, promoting oneself and one's ideas, and taking initiative. Extroverts, fearless in tooting their own horns, naturally thrive in this environment, but introverts often stumble. If you question your ability to perform and succeed in this extroverted work culture, The Introvert's Complete Career Guide is custom fit for you. In this supportive, all-inclusive handbook, Jane Finkle demonstrates how to use your introverted qualities to their best advantage, then add a sprinkling of extraverted skills to round out a forceful combination for ultimate career success. Finkle shares the keys to navigating each stage of professional development--from self-assessment and job searching, to survival in a new position and career advancement. In The Introvert's Complete Career Guide you will learn Equally applicable to the real or virtual workplace, The Introvert's Complete Career Guide provides strategies, tools, and success stories that win you the professional respect and recognition you deserve.
MP3 CD
First published January 1, 2019
108 people are currently reading
343 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
December 28, 2019
I read this book thanks to Blinkist, even though I’m not an introvert!
The key message in these blinks:
Introverts often feel that the odds are stacked against them when they compete with extroverts in the workplace. It’s true that an introvert’s natural need for privacy, coupled with their modesty, can create obstacles for those looking to advance their careers. But introverts also have special abilities that they can draw on to support their professional advancement. Their capacity to focus aids their ability to prepare for big events ahead of time; their keen observation skills help them identify problems in the workplace that might otherwise go unnoticed; and their ability to listen helps them develop meaningful and productive relationships with their colleagues.
Actionable advice:
Create a blog to build your network and increase visibility.
If your modesty and reserve are preventing you from showcasing your professional prowess, consider setting up a simple blog. As a skilled observer and a reflective individual, it’s likely that you’ll have plenty of ideas for blog posts. Once these are published, you can use your LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook accounts to promote them. If visitors to your blog leave comments or contact you, you can add them to your professional network.
What to read next:
Quiet, by Susan Cain
As we’ve explored in these blinks, introverts possess many qualities that are great assets to any professional team. But despite this, most workplaces are better tailored to extroverts, whose outgoing nature let them speak up with confidence, communicate their successes with ease, and network effortlessly.
How then do we ensure that the strengths of both personality types are harnessed in the workplace?
In Quiet, author Susan Cain walks readers through the strengths and weaknesses of both introverts and extroverts, revealing how best to design workplaces and approach communication with an eye towards supporting every team member. So check out the blinks to Quiet by Susan Cain, and learn how you can help every individual in your workplace thrive.
The key message in these blinks:
Introverts often feel that the odds are stacked against them when they compete with extroverts in the workplace. It’s true that an introvert’s natural need for privacy, coupled with their modesty, can create obstacles for those looking to advance their careers. But introverts also have special abilities that they can draw on to support their professional advancement. Their capacity to focus aids their ability to prepare for big events ahead of time; their keen observation skills help them identify problems in the workplace that might otherwise go unnoticed; and their ability to listen helps them develop meaningful and productive relationships with their colleagues.
Actionable advice:
Create a blog to build your network and increase visibility.
If your modesty and reserve are preventing you from showcasing your professional prowess, consider setting up a simple blog. As a skilled observer and a reflective individual, it’s likely that you’ll have plenty of ideas for blog posts. Once these are published, you can use your LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook accounts to promote them. If visitors to your blog leave comments or contact you, you can add them to your professional network.
What to read next:
Quiet, by Susan Cain
As we’ve explored in these blinks, introverts possess many qualities that are great assets to any professional team. But despite this, most workplaces are better tailored to extroverts, whose outgoing nature let them speak up with confidence, communicate their successes with ease, and network effortlessly.
How then do we ensure that the strengths of both personality types are harnessed in the workplace?
In Quiet, author Susan Cain walks readers through the strengths and weaknesses of both introverts and extroverts, revealing how best to design workplaces and approach communication with an eye towards supporting every team member. So check out the blinks to Quiet by Susan Cain, and learn how you can help every individual in your workplace thrive.
Read
July 26, 2020There's nothing groundbreaking in here, but it's a good guide if you need some basic help with your resume or interview skills. The only real issue I had was that Finkle assumes that introverts all have anxiety. This assumption is way too common. I dont know why I'm an introvert, but it is not a result of overwhelming fear of speaking to new people.
July 31, 2022
Got through about half of this when the call came from the dream job employer. Fast forward, just finished my first week at the new job. The simple exercises helped me cut through the chatter and create a mission statement that was sincere and at the same time unsentimental which helped me through those initial prescreening calls. The prep increased my confidence in my why…which meant I could focus less on myself and listen to what the employer was communicating. So for that, 5 stars.
August 9, 2021
This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: The Introvert’s Complete Career Guide: From Landing a Job, to Surviving, Thriving and Moving on Up
Author: Jane Finkle
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 21
Stats
Editing: 9/10
Writing Style: 8/10
Content: 9/10
Cover: 8/10
Of the 21 readers:
18 would read another book by this author.
17 thought the cover was good or excellent.
21 felt it was easy to follow.
19 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 8 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘subject knowledge’.
Of all the readers, 7 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
Of all the readers, 6 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘clarity of message’.
21 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
19 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
“Lots of helpful tips in here and how to be more successful in the workplace particularly if you happen to be an introvert. I thought it was clearly written and well-packaged. I don't know if it will help all introverts, but it's a good place to start if you are determined to get ahead.” Male reader, aged 51
“This seems to be packed full of helpful advice for the introvert who wants to be the best they can be. It looks at topics such as developing self-confidence and feeling comfortable using the internet as a tool for progress. Personally, I think any book which attempts to help people to develop, is a good thing.” Female reader, aged 65
“Practical and concise are the best two words to describe this book.” Mae reader, aged 32
“This author seems to understand how important it is to give an example when trying to explain a particular concept. I thought the writing style of the author was excellent; it also helps that she has a lot to say that makes a lot of sense.” Male reader, age 40
To Sum It Up:
‘A superb tool for introverts who want to go as far as they possibly can in the workplace. A FINALIST and highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
Title: The Introvert’s Complete Career Guide: From Landing a Job, to Surviving, Thriving and Moving on Up
Author: Jane Finkle
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 21
Stats
Editing: 9/10
Writing Style: 8/10
Content: 9/10
Cover: 8/10
Of the 21 readers:
18 would read another book by this author.
17 thought the cover was good or excellent.
21 felt it was easy to follow.
19 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 8 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘subject knowledge’.
Of all the readers, 7 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
Of all the readers, 6 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘clarity of message’.
21 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
19 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
“Lots of helpful tips in here and how to be more successful in the workplace particularly if you happen to be an introvert. I thought it was clearly written and well-packaged. I don't know if it will help all introverts, but it's a good place to start if you are determined to get ahead.” Male reader, aged 51
“This seems to be packed full of helpful advice for the introvert who wants to be the best they can be. It looks at topics such as developing self-confidence and feeling comfortable using the internet as a tool for progress. Personally, I think any book which attempts to help people to develop, is a good thing.” Female reader, aged 65
“Practical and concise are the best two words to describe this book.” Mae reader, aged 32
“This author seems to understand how important it is to give an example when trying to explain a particular concept. I thought the writing style of the author was excellent; it also helps that she has a lot to say that makes a lot of sense.” Male reader, age 40
To Sum It Up:
‘A superb tool for introverts who want to go as far as they possibly can in the workplace. A FINALIST and highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
April 4, 2022
Does the thought of talking to strangers make you want to never leave your house? Perhaps the idea of interrupting a colleague makes you so queasy that you can’t speak up during meetings. Or maybe you’re so modest that when you have your annual performance review you fail to mention all the amazing things you’ve achieved at work.
If you can identify with any or all of these scenarios, it’s likely that you’re an introvert. Introverts have many valuable qualities, but the competitive nature of contemporary workplaces means that their reserve and modesty often put them at a disadvantage.
The good news is that introverts are equipped with a number of natural abilities that can help counteract the challenges of having a more reflective personality type. In fact, introverts possess a number of characteristics that are highly prized by employers. Once you know how to draw upon your introvert superpowers, you’ll be in a strong position to build your professional network, secure an excellent job, and ensure that your career progresses in the way you deserve.
Introverts often feel that the odds are stacked against them when they compete with extroverts in the workplace. It’s true that an introvert’s natural need for privacy, coupled with their modesty, can create obstacles for those looking to advance their careers. But introverts also have special abilities that they can draw on to support their professional advancement. Their capacity to focus aids their ability to prepare for big events ahead of time; their keen observation skills help them identify problems in the workplace that might otherwise go unnoticed; and their ability to listen helps them develop meaningful and productive relationships with their colleagues.
If you can identify with any or all of these scenarios, it’s likely that you’re an introvert. Introverts have many valuable qualities, but the competitive nature of contemporary workplaces means that their reserve and modesty often put them at a disadvantage.
The good news is that introverts are equipped with a number of natural abilities that can help counteract the challenges of having a more reflective personality type. In fact, introverts possess a number of characteristics that are highly prized by employers. Once you know how to draw upon your introvert superpowers, you’ll be in a strong position to build your professional network, secure an excellent job, and ensure that your career progresses in the way you deserve.
Introverts often feel that the odds are stacked against them when they compete with extroverts in the workplace. It’s true that an introvert’s natural need for privacy, coupled with their modesty, can create obstacles for those looking to advance their careers. But introverts also have special abilities that they can draw on to support their professional advancement. Their capacity to focus aids their ability to prepare for big events ahead of time; their keen observation skills help them identify problems in the workplace that might otherwise go unnoticed; and their ability to listen helps them develop meaningful and productive relationships with their colleagues.
December 30, 2019
I am a huge Extrovert who is always curious about my counterparts as a way to better understand me (as their opposites) and my introverted clients better. Jane does a great job at walking introverts through the entire career process with many of the same pieces of advice that I give my clients with her added insights as to how introverts might navigate each of the processes.
She begins with recognizing that introverts have many strengths like the power of observation, thinking before they speak, and their often inquisitive minds. These strengths play well in one on one or small groups but how do you navigate this 'extroverted world' that we live in?
Well, Jane starts from the beginning and takes you right through tips on how to grow in your position and to move up to leadership positions if that is what you want. Her practical advice for each step of the way is good for everyone, but then she adds in tips for introverts, like how to politely break into conversations, how to use their strength of observation and curiosity to add to networking conversations and office meetings.
Networking can be difficult for introverts (and many extroverts too!) and her advice is to prepare for those networking events and do your homework on who might be there and have 4 or 5 questions to ask people ahead of time. i.e. Have you been to this event before? How long have you worked in the field?
And then to follow up with 1 on 1 meetings whenever possible.
This book is filled with great tips for ALL people but her insights for introverts is so helpful. Great reminders for extroverts like me to make sure I give 'space' for these thoughtful curious quiet types.
Well done Jane.
She begins with recognizing that introverts have many strengths like the power of observation, thinking before they speak, and their often inquisitive minds. These strengths play well in one on one or small groups but how do you navigate this 'extroverted world' that we live in?
Well, Jane starts from the beginning and takes you right through tips on how to grow in your position and to move up to leadership positions if that is what you want. Her practical advice for each step of the way is good for everyone, but then she adds in tips for introverts, like how to politely break into conversations, how to use their strength of observation and curiosity to add to networking conversations and office meetings.
Networking can be difficult for introverts (and many extroverts too!) and her advice is to prepare for those networking events and do your homework on who might be there and have 4 or 5 questions to ask people ahead of time. i.e. Have you been to this event before? How long have you worked in the field?
And then to follow up with 1 on 1 meetings whenever possible.
This book is filled with great tips for ALL people but her insights for introverts is so helpful. Great reminders for extroverts like me to make sure I give 'space' for these thoughtful curious quiet types.
Well done Jane.
October 28, 2019
The Introvert's Complete Career Guide... a digital age companion for people who thrive on time to think. The text offers strong examples of how to use skills to your benefit when talking with peers, emailing responses, and setting up your digital career identity on social media. Most of the book caters to interviewing and etiquette surrounding negotiating and beginning a new job. Focused on collecting keywords and action words to use, the book is repetitive and dry.
October 21, 2020
The author provides a wealth of information that assists introverts like me to find new employment that matches my values and personality. I have used her methods in my job search and while I still have not landed my dream job, I feel like I am one step closer each time I put myself out there for employers. Finding new employment is no easy task and I appreciated the information that Ms. Finkel provided.
August 8, 2019
Basically it’s about using LinkedIn, Twitter, and blogs and social media. Also speaking up in meetings, networking, socializing, and promoting yourself. Essentially doing things that are outside of your comfort zone to land a job, keep it, and move up the career ladder. The interview tips were good, along with the resume advice.
October 25, 2019
It was okay. I did find it somewhat helpful, as it had some new ideas that I think could be useful. It has an odd mix of ideas, where some were modern (use social media) and others seemed outdated. Some suggestions also amounted to basically saying you should be extroverted, which often happens. Overall, some is worth going back to and trying, but other things are not fresh ideas.
December 27, 2019
A real good book and a must read if you haven't read anything on this subject. I've been avaid reader of awesome books :) and though the ideas were known to me, it was great to find them all in one small package. Managed to create 3 page list of things to consider alredy. And I do see myself using some of these into my day-to-day work life. Thank you Jane Finkle for this Awesomeness!
December 10, 2024
I liked the premise of the book more than the book itself. The beginning was promising and I really liked the self-assessment questions. But right after that, this book is your typical career guide - which is still valuable and good, don’t get me wrong. It’s a solid guide. But it is just not what I expected.
July 21, 2025
Started this book and realized a few chapters in that it wasn’t for me. I have an anxiety disorder and often think of myself as an introvert, but this book is more for people who have trouble articulating why they are great, which I have no problem doing. Additionally, there’s a large focus on how to use social media to help advance a career and I hate social media.
June 5, 2019
This was a pain to read.
September 5, 2019
Step out of your comfort zone, use social media, yadda, yadda...not helpful for someone reentering the workforce.
January 8, 2020
Falling asleep
January 27, 2020
Overall, I do think this book was helpful. But the myriad acronyms became a bit confusing and repetitive.
August 29, 2020
Also started this one and I had to return it before I could finish.
August 12, 2021
I'm still on the third chapter, but I am so engrossed with it! This book helps level introverts into the extroverts' field of competition.
May 6, 2020
only read sample was not interesting enough for me to purchase.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews