Boldness and brilliance are the two personality traits everyone immediately associates with extroverts. On the other hand, if asked to picture an introvert, you’re far more likely to think of someone quieter, more restrained, even shy. But while it may seem as if extroversion is the key to making it in a world that values big ideas, big voices and big opinions, there’s a great deal of strength that comes from those who source their energy from within – especially in the workplace. 

“The personality hire has been trending recently and there’s definitely a lot of great reasons why a person with this type of confidence can be a great asset to the business, but it doesn’t negate the importance of hardwork from other team members,” explains Robbie Bryant, a careers expert at Open Study College. Because if you’re qualified, have the right experience, or you’re simply ready to tackle the task ahead, there’s no reason why an introvert cannot be successful. 

“Remember, being the most confident person in the room is not always the secret to success,” he adds. “Yes, it might gain you some initial attention, but in the end it’s always the person whose work makes the biggest difference that will be the most successful.”

As psychologist Dr. Kalanit Ben-Ari explains, introversion “is not about being shy or anxious… you can be confident, determined, secure and assertive, too.”

“Many personality tests include a scale of “introvert” to “extrovert” to describe a person’s tendencies,” she explains. “We are all somewhere on the scale, and we can move up and down it according to our surroundings. For example, someone could come across as an extrovert at work, and yet be an introvert when it comes to close relationships.”

And introversion isn’t just about being ‘shy’ or quiet, either. Generally speaking, introverts have the tendency to go inwards – to recharge, reflect and self-regulate – for their resources. They typically will not experience large social events as ‘recharging’, but the opposite. In fact, introverts will generally prefer a small number of significant friendships, for example, as opposed to many.

Dr Ben-Ari continues: “They have a lower threshold for stimulation, so can feel more overwhelmed by outside stimulation. And Carl Jung, who was the first to define these personality types as a way that people source their energy, said that introverts are recharged by their inner world, whereas extroverts need others to be recharged.”

What are the benefits of being an introvert at work?

Scientists recently identified the four main behavioural traits that are most likely to signify success in the workplace.

They are:

• The ability to make decisions quickly and with conviction
• Being insightful and focused on delivering business results
• Being highly adaptable and open to change
• Delivering steady and reliable results, as opposed to irregular peaks of success

And, as Dr Ben-Ari shares, an introvert is far more likely to tick off all of these boxes. “Introverts are usually more independent,” she says. “They can reflect and be aware of themselves and they are resourceful. They work well in small groups and they have a rich inner world. They are focused. And, most importantly, they know how to listen.”

How can an introvert use their unique skills to shine at work?

The key to career success for introverts, it seems, is choosing your work environment carefully. “Try working in places where independent thinking is valued and appreciated, as is working in small groups,” says Dr Ben-Ari. “Choose to work in places which require reflection, creativity and calmness. And remember: introverts make great leaders because, usually, the higher the position, the more ‘lonely’ or introvert it becomes.”

She continues: “Use your strengths, such as good self-awareness, to lead. Request small meetings, as this is where introverts shine. Use your observation skills and self-reflection to communicate with your boss.

“Don’t just focus on practising small talk; learn to delegate, too, as you are more than likely to take too much on being so self-reliant and independent. And be sure to secure a balance of recharging yourself before and after work.”

“Focusing your efforts on one important person is also a great tip,” says Bryant. “If you’re not comfortable in larger settings, book one-to-one meetings with your supervisor and ensure that this time is used to discuss any points that are of importance to you. Not only will this help with getting noticed, but it will also build confidence in your own abilities.”

Most importantly, though, Dr Ben-Ari advises introverts to trust their intuition, be authentic and speak their minds. “Step up where it’s needed and bring your voice, ideas and forward-thinking,” she says. “Do so and you will shine.”

Wise words, indeed.

Images: Getty