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Dec 9
Are You Missing Out On Introverts Input Into Your Team Decision Making?

The stereotype of an introvert is someone who is shy, small_biz_mentor_tip.pngwithdrawn and lacking confidence.

What Is An Introvert?
In fact, this is not the true picture of an introvert at all. Of course, there may be shy introverts. However, introversion and extraversion are more about where different types draw their energy from.

The Inner World of An Introvert
An introvert draws energy from an inner world of though
ts. They recharge by being alone for longer periods of time than an extravert.

Introverts Like To Reflect

Introverts get exhausted by too much external stimulation. They usually like to reflect on things before they verbalize what they are thinking.

Meeting Time Dread For Introverts
If you are introvert you will identify with the dread of the round the table introductions of who you are, what you do, your goals for the company etc. when meeting with a new group.

Asking For Opinions Around The Table
Worse still is asking for opinions round the table, and making important decisions quickly, without giving introverts time to reflect. An introvert usually reflects before they speak or make a judgement. They will often take some time or go home and think about things, and come back with a considered opinion and valuable insights. 

Extraverts vs Introverts
This can be interpreted as being indecisive for extraverts who are often much more skilled at thinking on their feet. Extraverts think out loud, and verbalize their thoughts. This is often why introverts are seen as shy to extraverts.

What Is An Introvert Thinking?
We usually know what an extravert thinks. They often share quite personal details openly. Do we always know what an introvert thinks at a meeting?

Are You Giving Introverts A Fair Chance To Contribute?
While sometimes quick and decisive action needs to be taken,  as a mentor or employer, are there times when you are missing out on the introverts' input in your team decision making?

An Introvert's Responsibility In The Workplace
Of course, the introvert needs to (and does), develop extravert skills to function well in the workplace, but it is also worth thinking about their natural strengths and preferences for processing information and decision making.

Training Settings For Introverts
As a Myers Briggs Trainer, I am conscious that this process is as true for training as it is for meetings. 

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11 Comments/Trackbacks




Very true perspective of the introverts, it's going to be such a waste to miss out introverts input. They're thoughtful and reflective.

Some of the inputs might make them looks like so pessimistic, don't ignore them, put it into an account, as some introverts can see more after careful thoughts and considerations.

Yvonne, thanks for reminding all of us that introverts are valuable in the workplace!

Nice article. It gets complicated when you have traits of both! I need lots of quite time, and depending upon the subject matter will speak up quickly or freeze in my boots! Still I love the quite time to reflect and recharge.

There's a whole bunch of stuff I never realised here Yvonne. Thanks a lot for this information. Like Michelle, I think I may have characteristics of both types. No wonder I'm so confused.

Hi Michelle & Karen
It's a fascinating area. It's easy to assume that everyone thinks the same as we do.

We need to be able to operate in both spheres to function at our jobs and in society. Extraversion and Introversion are more about our natural preferences.


Nice article. I'm an introvert. I own a 4-bedroom house and I live in it alone, not because I'm rich but because I like to have lots of time to recharge. I'm also one of those creative thinkers who does well being left alone to create something big. I'm an INFP.

Hi Sol
Thanks for taking the time to comment, and for stumbling the post.

INFP's can be very creative. As you say, I's (Introverts) operate best when they have time to recharge, especially after being overwhelmed by external stimuli.

As they say, it takes all types... which is why teams do well with a blend of different people types and strengths.

Robert
Thanks for your comments.

It takes more time to wait for the introvert's input if you give them time to reflect, but the pay off could be great for your business, and for valuing the introvert's strengths and contribution.

Of course, in the hurly burly of business, this may not always be possible, so it's a two way street, and the introvert also needs to operate out of their preferred mode when necessary.

Great article. It's good to see you share some of your specialized knowledge in this area.

In my experience, though, the same person can behave in both an introverted or an extraverted fashion, depending on the circumstances.

That's right, Laura.

To operate in society, we've learned skills in both areas, but our strength is our natural preference - introversion or extraversion.

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I really like your article. It's a bit hard for the ones I know to comprehend who I am. They accept it, but it's like they sort of tease me about it or get snippy just because I want to take my time sometimes.

I'm not ashamed to be introverted...that's just who I am. If it comes down to cutting others out because of that, so be it.

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