The lowdown: Learn to make the most of your skills in an extroverted workplace with this Introverted Leader summary.
So, what is the role of a leader anyway?
A leader needs to coach, direct and guide a team of people.
Leadership sounds like a great position for a confident extroverted person. However, some of the most successful leaders are introverted by nature.
In The Introverted Leader, Jennifer Kahnweiler interviewed over 100 business leaders and found out how they got to the top as an introvert.
- Audible Audiobook
- Jennifer Kahnweiler (Author) – Tiffany Williams (Narrator)
- English (Publication Language)
- 01/17/2018 (Publication Date) – Berrett-Koehler Publishers (Publisher)
The three main takeaways from the book are:
- Introverts can miss out on opportunities because they avoid the limelight
- An introverts’ listening skills make them great leaders
- In an extroverted business world, introverts will need to push themselves initially
Lesson One: Introverts can miss out on opportunities because they avoid the limelight
If you’re introverted you’ve probably been in one of ‘those’ staff meetings where a group is trying to work out whatever challenge they’re facing.
There are a million different opinions flying through the room and everyone is having their say…. except you.
This type of meeting is a common stumbling block for the introverted person.
You need to let your opinions and views be heard in meetings.
So many potentially great candidates don’t get chosen to take the next steps in their careers because they don’t have the opportunity to leave a favorable impression.
So, make sure your voice is heard in meetings and you voice your opinions.
Lesson Two: An introverts’ listening skills make them great leaders
As an introvert, you’re probably used to putting yourself on the outside for a few tasks.
While some are happy to exchange the wise quips and do all the talking, you’re happy to observe and listen.
Well, that habit you’ve got for listening and paying attention is a great trait that transfers to leadership.
By being observant and a good listener, you’ll be able to pick up on the little things about team members that make the big difference.
Lesson Three: In an extroverted business world, introverts will need to push themselves initially
The freelance workforce will be the ultimate tool for the introvert.
Imagine no meetings, no silly networking events and you’ll never have to leave the house!
Unfortunately, before then you’ll need to step outside of your comfort zone from time to time.
If you’re the type who hates the limelight, I’m sorry but you’ll have to do some public speaking eventually.
You’ll have to sacrifice some alone time to be with your team.
So, to become a great leader, you’ll have to suck it up and get out there from time to time.
My Personal Takeaway
At times I can be a bit introverted, and I have seen that as a negative.
Knowing that introverted these traits I have at times can help my leadership is a great relief.
Put it into action
Even if you’re not introverted, there is still a lot which you can take from those who are quieter.
Start by listening to others more. And I don’t mean just sitting silently, I mean you should be actively listening to those around you.
You should consider buying this book if…
Any introverted business owner or leader will get a lot from this book.
Or, read our other business book summaries.
You should also check out..
a Swedish university student, marketing professional, and life-long learner. Here at BookSummaryClub I summarize my favorite non-fiction books into easily digested posts. Hope you like what you’re reading!
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