Many people view introverts as antisocial, unconfident people without ambition. Fortunately, employers are realising that these stereotypes are false, and that introverts can bring huge value to the workplace. If you’re an introvert, read these reasons why every workplace needs someone like you:

Introverts provide balance

The best companies have a good balance between extroverts and introverts. Both personality types bring their own unique attributes to the table. A workplace filled with only extroverts can be overly competitive, chaotic and disorganised. The thoughtful, quiet nature of introverts tones the volume down a notch, to the benefit of productivity.

Introverts come up with ideas

While extroverts are busy socialising and implementing creative ideas, introverts are often the people who come up with these ideas while working quietly in the office. Normally deep thinkers with an ability to focus and think through things logically, introverts can come up with well-crafted ideas that will usually be valuable.

Extroverts can draw on introverts

Despite having different personalities, introverts and extroverts can work together extremely well. As an example, in a brainstorming session, an introvert may prefer to ask plenty of questions, which an extrovert can bounce numerous answers off. Being good listeners, introverts absorb information well, and are able to sift the useful ideas from the not-so-useful.

Introverts are better at certain jobs

There are certain vital job roles that introverts are naturally suited to and can do a better job at than extroverts. Introverts generally do well in jobs involving research, organisation and analysis. They are usually very effective at written communication, making them perfect as writers within social media and marketing teams. Being introverted doesn’t mean that you should rule out a leadership position either. In fact, in a 10-year Harvard study of more than 2000 CEOs, it was found that introverts were slightly more likely to be high-performing leaders than their extroverted counterparts.

From the above, it ought to be clear that being introverted should be seen as an advantage, not as an obstacle.

Extroverts don't always understand introverts

Understanding introverts

For extroverted types, introverted people can sometimes be difficult to understand. If one of your co-workers is an introvert, you should bear in mind some of the following points to relate to them better:

  • Introverts aren’t antisocial. They are energised by spending some time with themselves, just as extroverts are energised by being around others. They are generally better in one-on-one situations, and some of the most meaningful and productive conversations you’ll find anywhere can happen in this setting.
  • Introverts think before they talk. They often don’t come up with witty responses or good ideas immediately, so they should be given time to consider things.
  • Introverts can feel overwhelmed by noise. Some introverts are often overstimulated by too much chattering or a blaring radio, so consider this if you want them to feel comfortable.
  • Introverts aren’t slow or dim-witted. Although they may be quiet, this doesn’t mean that there’s nothing going on inside their heads. Usually they are experiencing just as much internal activity as extroverted people show externally.
Also read:

Why Workplace Culture Fit Matters

Social Skills Tips For Succeeding In The Modern Workplace