Have you ever considered if being an introvert, extrovert, or ambivert has influenced your leadership path?
I’m an extroverted introvert--also known as an ambivert-- but that has not always been the case.
Speaking up and sharing my point of view wasn’t always easy. I can recall many times earlier in my career where I had a good idea, but instead of speaking up and sharing it in a meeting, brainstorm, etc., I’d stay quiet. I got in my head analyzing the right thing to say. Instead someone else spoke up leaving me feeling unheard, sometimes invisible — even though I didn't take the opportunity to say something.
Unpacking my Authentic Leadership Style
I remember in one of my first jobs when my team did the Myers Brigg Indicator and I learned that I was an introvert. At that time, we were all working in the office and the facilitator divided us up into groups of introverts and extroverts (ambiverts weren't a consideration at the time).
There are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to introversion and extroversion, and I recall moving over to the extrovert side of the room and doubting the data that said I was an introvert. I was cognizant that I was a little reserved, but I had a career in communications and speaking to new people like reporters or potential clients was something I did daily. That had to mean I was an extrovert, right?
Overtime, I realized that there were parts of me that were introverted and other parts that were extroverted. I didn't relish being the center of attention, but I loved being part of a team, or developing and meeting new people. I appreciated time to process and think through big decisions when possible versus thinking out loud, but I could act quickly and confidently when it was necessary to move forward or in crisis situations. I reenergized by spending quiet time on my own and started to recognize that I needed that after big work functions.
Knowing these tendencies, I was able to understand how I worked best. Coupling that with my emotional intelligence (EQ) and soft skills, I was able to pull on my strengths to make the most out of my natural personality in my roles. And I learned what I needed to do to shift my executive presence, and shape how I effectively influenced and led. The more actions that came from this learning, the more confident I became in my authentic leadership style.
Leadership Isn't Born from a Label
The introvert or extrovert label doesn't really matter. It's about having an understanding of how you naturally operate best and your emotional intelligence (EQ) that helps shape you as a leader. Understanding your strengths and tendencies and knowing how to best put them to use allows you to authentically lead and grow.
Because the truth is, both introverts and extroverts can be, and are great leaders. There are differences that allow them to naturally and effectively lead. Understanding how to make these work for you will truly allow you to unlock your authentic leadership potential.
If you’d like to explore your natural leadership traits and understand your authentic leadership style, let's connect.