The loudest voices in the room aren’t the only ones you should be listening to. I’m sure that this goes without saying, but it can be all too easy to discount the quiet ones in the workplace. However, doing so would be a huge disservice to your company.
In fact, introverts have many unique qualities that can offer enormous advantages to your company – and not only when it comes to efficiency and productivity, but also with client relations and interpersonal team dynamics.
Let’s take a look at three of the greatest strengths that many introverts possess.
They Tend to Be More Independent
Generally speaking, introverts don’t need a lot of hand holding and tend to be lower maintenance than many of their extroverted colleagues. You can count on them to come to you with questions or for clarification, but otherwise they are more than happy to take a task and run with it. This should offer you assurance, as well as free up some of your time, since you won’t need to constantly be checking in to make sure that they are staying on task.
By the same token, if an introvert feels strongly about an idea, they will often stand behind it and make a strong case for it. This could come across as stubborn in some instances, but it is usually worth hearing them out. After all, introverts do not often act rashly, and will generally have rationale and research to support their reasoning.
They Bring Fresh Insight to the Table
It’s true that many introverts like time to work alone and formulate their thoughts. They are also less impulsive and are able to evaluate many different angles and perspectives to the same problem. Additionally, introverts tend to have great observational and listening skills. The combination of these qualities makes them excellent planners.
When an introvert brings a new idea or fresh insight to the group, you can rest assured that it is not just based on his or her own personal opinion, but has been mulled over and vetted in excruciating detail.
They Provide Thoughtful and Personalized Leadership
More often than not, extroverts are the ones that end up in management and leadership positions. This makes sense, as they are usually more visible and vocal – but they may not be as effective.
Introverts are more likely to lead by example, to show rather than just tell. It’s no secret that introverts also fare better in smaller groups versus larger ones, which means that they have the ability to build incredibly strong one-on-one relationships with colleagues and underlings. They are more likely to make their boundaries and expectations very clear, and then help team members work independently.
Particularly in the Senior Care Industry, Introverts Shine
Introverts generally have a particularly high emotional IQ, which means that they are more in touch with others’ feelings and their surrounding environment. These qualities are important in any industry, but they are absolutely critical when it comes to health and wellness. By helping your introverted employees raise their voices, you will only benefit your company.
Photo by Elena Koycheva on Unsplash