Deconstructing with Della: Introverts Speak Up
November 27, 2017 |
| Christina Aguilera self describes as an introvert (Billboard) |
So many people now self identify as introverts. In the past few weeks three senior executives, including one of the top CEOs in the country, have proclaimed their introvert status to me. This feels like a turning point. Finally, after years of not acknowledging their feelings, introverts are expressing their need for a way to communicate that works for them.
In the past, these people silently suffered and put up with being forced to interact in an extrovert-designed world. I find introverts often bring the greatest perspectives to discussions, they are good listeners and tend to think before they speak. Trouble is, they are not always given an easy forum to express their thoughts.
My introvert CEO has created an environment that allows him to excel. He does not have to endure painful processes. His staff manage initial contact with people and give him the space he needs. People in that company appreciate everyone's thinking and communications process. As their facilitator, I was asked to be sensitive to the introverts attending the meeting. Yay! We plan all our sessions anticipating at least 50% of the room will be introverts. It was wonderful to have the top person value that. Historically, the CEOs we have worked with have been extroverts or introverts who forced themselves to fake an extro persona. Extroverts who have little understanding of the introvert mindset can misinterpret the quieter ones at the table. They might see them as weak or lacking insight when really all they need is a different format to express their opinions. Like giving them a heads up and time to think before responding or smaller group sessions. Better yet, an opportunity to follow up after meetings in writing or a one to one dialogue.
I am not sure what has created this openness about introversion. Perhaps it is a combination of Susan Cain's (author of Quiet: The Power of Introverts In A World That Can’t Stop Talking) movement to make the world more conducive to introverts and the wave of introverts excelling in new business fields. Whatever is creating this more transparent way to express oneself, it will undoubtedly make workplaces better.
To deconstruct, if you are an introvert it is okay to let others know. You might be surprised to see the following list of high profile people who describe themselves as introverts:
Christina Aguilera
Stephen Spielberg
Barbara Walters
Guy Kawasaki
J. K. Rowling
If you're an extrovert, take time to listen to the introverts. Help make your organization introvert friendly. Fast Company had an article about three low tech ways to make your work culture better for introverts. The first tip is so logical... just ask people their preferred format of communication.
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