Do you know your introverts?

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One of the introverts in my team recommended I read Quiet by Susan Cain (link). I wasn’t sure what to expect with the subtitle being ‘the power of introverts in a world that can’t stop talking’, but it was very well worth the read. I am more of an introvert but if you asked people around me you would get conflicting opinions.

So what made this book such a worthwhile read for me is it framed so many triggers that have made me adapt my work persona. From not wanting to talk too loud about an achievement to always feeling ‘not as good’ if I wasn’t immediately contributing ideas in a brainstorming meeting. The book explains introverts and extroverts on a physiological and psychological level which always peaks my interest. Understanding how things work allows you to understand what levers you have to influence change in yourself.

One. Deep thinkers. Some of the practical things to consider are to allow time for the deeper thinkers in your team. Deep thinkers need more time before they feel they can contribute to an idea. They like to think through all the variance options, pros and cons, what is the broader impact to other areas. These insights can be combined before you decisions are made and next step actions are set. Another method I use is to send questions/problem statement in advance where possible. It gives introverts to take the time they need and will be more likely to contribute in brainstorming. This also applies to 1:1s with team members when there is a situation that you want to explore further in the 1:1.

Two. Social work events. Work events can be a challenge sometimes, part of you just wants to go home and relax. But you know socialising outside of the office can build strong relationships with colleagues. The key here is to do it your way, you don’t have to chat with 20+ people in one night and you do not have to be the last one standing. Just work out a way you can enjoy your night whilst getting to know your colleagues. Whether you find an extrovert and use a lot of questions and listening to get to know them. Or you find an introvert and find a quieter corner to discuss the underlying social themes of the show Mr Robot married and the unique cinematography techniques used to film it. Once you are done, it is ok to head off to your comfortable place.

Three. The office space. Our office space has become even more challenging with the open plan and hot desking meaning there is a lot more noise at any given time. When you need to think through a problem as an introvert, the quiet spaces are what you are drawn to. If you have an office with a lot of quiet rooms you are in luck. Most of my team resort to noise-cancelling earphones. I like to find areas on different floors where there are few people around that relate to my role, this gives me the space and allows me to avoid walk ups for a short period of time.

You have to find what works for you in different situations so you can get the most out of your time. We are not strictly introverted or extroverted. We are all somewhere in-between and understanding where we are is part of the fun.

Note: Opinions expressed are solely my own and do not express the views or opinions of my employer.