Tips for Introverted Leaders

If you consider yourself to be an introvert, you may have at one point come across the misconception that introverts make poor leaders.

The truth is, there is a lot of value in tapping into your authentic self and using that as your leadership strength.

During the most recent New Supervisors in Government Community of Practice, Susan Schneider, Director of Anhinga Coaching, LLC, offered advice on how to manage more effectively based on your personality.

Here are a few quick takeaways from that online session:

1. Labels are useful. Determining which type of introvert you are can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses. Schneider recommended taking a quiz provided by Psychology Today to see how introverted you are and what you may need to work on.
2. There are a lot of misconceptions about introverts to navigate around. Introverts aren’t shy, snobby, or arrogant. Introverts just need time to recharge after social events, and that doesn’t make them incapable leaders.
3. All introverts are not the same. There are four main types of introverts: social introverts, thinking introverts, anxious introverts, and inhibited introverts. Each type has its own unique characteristics and social preferences, and you should explore which you identify with, because it will affect how you can lead comfortably. For example, if you’re a social introvert, you may prefer meeting with your direct reports in small groups, and if you’re an anxious introvert, you might want to plan ahead and create an agenda as well as skip the small talk in meetings.
4. It’s essential to know your boundaries and needs as an introvert. Schneider had a few suggestions, such as setting parameters around active listening (so you hear your employee needs but don’t become a punching bag) and turning to written communication like email to get your thoughts out without becoming overwhelmed.

The rest of the Community of Practice can be viewed on demand now, and don’t forget to register for the next session on Sept. 30 at 4 p.m., “Your Gov Resume Overview.”