What about Introverts?
by Stefan Falk an internationally recognized executive coach, workplace psychology expert, and author of "Intrinsic Motivation: Learn to Love Your Work and Succeed as Never Before."
Thinking like an introvert can have some personally, powerful benefits! Introverts tend to process information more thoroughly, leading to well-thought-out decisions and creative solutions. They often notice details others overlook, making them great at reading situations and people. They are excellent listeners and are comfortable being alone, which fosters resilience.
Extroverts Jump
During team meetings, extroverts often jump in first, eager to lead the conversation. While they bring plenty of energy, the substance of their input doesn't always match their enthusiasm. Introverts, on the other hand, communicate with greater thoughtfulness and effectiveness.
For introverts, interacting with groups—especially without preparation—can feel uncomfortable. Yet, this very discomfort drives them to think more deeply, plan more intentionally, and choose their words with care. The result is communication that is precise, thoughtful, and impactful.
Time often gets wasted when people feign understanding, make vague statements, or allow discussions to derail. Introverts change this dynamic with the simple, yet rare act of admitting what they don't know. By doing so, they prioritize honesty, which not only feels refreshing but also fosters productivity. Their transparency creates a safe environment for others to admit uncertainties, paving the way for deeper thinking and better decisions.
Talk less, Listen More
In many organizations, there’s a tendency to compete for having all the answers—especially in one's area of expertise. The downside is limited collaboration and missed opportunities for diverse input. Introverts, however, embrace their incomplete knowledge and seek out perspectives from others, unlocking diverse viewpoints and untapped ideas.
While some people overstate their personal efforts to mask gaps or maintain their status, introverts bring the opposite approach: substance without theatrics. When they say they've “looked into something,” it's because they genuinely have. This quiet credibility makes them a vital force in decision-making.
Teams pressured to move quickly often ignore ambiguities or bluff their way through uncertainty, which leads to chasing the wrong problems. Introverts counteract this by knowing when to ensure the decisions being made are thorough and accurate. Their instinct to think deeply fosters a culture of thoughtful decision-making.
Organizational challenges often stem from unresolved tensions hidden beneath the surface. Hesitations, frustrations, or quiet resistance can linger and disrupt progress. Introverts, with their reflective mindset, excel at truly listening and picking up on what isn’t being said. This clarity defuses tension. When people feel heard, they stop resisting and start contributing.
How to Think and Communicate Like an Introvert
Speak with Purpose: Just as you walk with intention, your speech should have a clear destination. Every word and sentence should advance the conversation meaningfully.
Avoid Vague Generalizations: Replace phrases like “We need to improve team collaboration” with actionable specifics, such as: “Teams A and B are misaligned due to conflicting goals. Here's how we can resolve it…”
Structure Your Thinking
Before important interactions, organize your thoughts using headings such as:
What I'm certain about
What I believe but am not fully sure about
What I'm currently clueless about
Understanding more about interactions with introverts is ultimately possible by quieting the chatter in the mind and intending to communicate with focused intention.
05/11/25