The Myth of the Extroverted Leader: Why Introverts Can Make Great Executives
Challenging the common stereotype that all great leaders must be extroverted
Re-Think the Executive Stereotype
If you think all great leaders have to be extroverted, think again! Some of the most successful tech giants and business leaders in the world are introverts, and they're here to shatter the myth that extroverts are the only ones who can make it to the top.
Introverts Lead Differently, and That’s OK
I think of myself as an example of what is possible, even for those at the far edge. On the scale of introversion to extroversion, I count myself at the end toward introversion. Like many aspiring professionals, I’ve slowly moved up in responsibility over the years from Director, to Vice President, and ultimately into various CXO roles and one role as President with companies ranging from $150M to $200M+. Those companies had staff counts from 100 to 1,300, so there was alway a ton of communication to navigate. It was never easy - and the speaking engagements, large group meetings, networking events - downright hazardous to my mental health.
Be Your Authentic Self
I only wish I could have acknowledged earlier in my career that I am naturally introverted. It really would have been great if someone had said to me, “oh, you’re totally introverted, but no worries, here are some strategies and tools that will help you succeed.” Boom. Done. Shiny, custom-made introvert tools in the box, let’s roll.
But no, at least not in my career. None of my peers ever talked about it, and no one else ever admitted being introverted - like it was some weakness never to be exposed or acknowledged. From time to time I received weird feedback that seemed totally disconnected from my own thoughts and sense of self - you’re too nice, your too quiet, you’re not able to make the hard decisions, you need to be better at inspiring and motivating the troops! I just painfully barreled into every situation ill-equipped, drowning in anxiety, but wanting to succeed - just like those extroverts, but with a completely different daily experience of life.
The Introvert’s Edge
Based on many real-world situations throughout my career, I’d point to a few ways I’ve turned my introversion into an advantage:
Deep thinking and reflection: Introverted executives may have a natural tendency to think deeply and reflect on problems and decisions.
Ability to listen and observe: Introverted executives may be particularly attuned to the needs and perspectives of others, and they may excel at building deep and meaningful relationships with their team members.
Strong communication skills: Just because an executive is introverted doesn't mean they can't communicate effectively. In fact, introverted executives may be skilled at listening, expressing themselves clearly, and adapting their communication style to fit different situations and connecting with a wide range of individuals and teams.
Focus and productivity: Introverted executives may be able to focus and get things done without a lot of external stimulation. They often seek time and space to achieve a state of “flow” when working on intensely challenging problems.
Creativity and innovation: Introverted executives may be able to tap into their creative thinking and come up with innovative solutions to problems.
Leadership by example: Introverted executives may be able to inspire and lead by example, rather than relying on their charisma or personality to motivate their team.
Ability to make difficult decisions: Introverted executives may be able to make tough decisions without letting emotions get in the way.
Adaptability: Introverted executives may be able to adapt to new situations and changing environments with ease.
Emotional intelligence: Introverted executives may have a high level of emotional intelligence, which can be valuable in understanding and managing the emotions of others.
Sure, extroverts may be the life of the party, but introverts are the ones who are quietly making their mark on the world. They're the ones who listen more than they talk, who think before they speak, and who are comfortable spending time alone. And guess what? These qualities can be major assets in the business world.
A Few Rock Star Introverted CEOs
Just take a look at some of the introverted heavy hitters in the tech and business world:
Susan Wojcicki - Susan Wojcicki is the CEO of YouTube and has been open about her introversion and the challenges it has presented in her career. In an interview with Forbes, Wojcicki spoke about how she has learned to manage her introversion in the workplace. She said: "I'm naturally introverted and it can be hard for me to put myself out there. I've had to push myself to be more extroverted in order to be an effective leader and build relationships with my team, but I've also learned to recognize when I need to take a step back and recharge. It's important to find a balance and know when to be more extroverted and when to be more introverted." Wojcicki has also emphasized the importance of finding ways to recharge and take breaks, which is essential for introverted individuals. She has said that she tries to take time for herself to recharge and relax, which helps her to be more effective in her work.
Satya Nadella - In an interview with Forbes, Nadella spoke about how he has learned to manage his introversion in the workplace. He said: "I'm naturally an introvert, and early on in my career, I struggled with the expectations placed on a leader to be outgoing and extroverted. But I learned that being authentic to who I am, and finding ways to connect with others despite my introverted nature, was key to my success. I've found that small gestures, like making eye contact and asking open-ended questions, can go a long way in building relationships and connecting with others."
Tim Cook - In an interview with Fortune, Cook spoke about how he has learned to manage his introversion in the workplace. He said: "I'm an introvert by nature, and I used to worry that it would hold me back in a leadership role. But I've learned that introverts can be just as effective leaders as extroverts, if not more so. It's all about finding your own style and being authentic to who you are. For me, that means being thoughtful and measured in my approach, and making a conscious effort to build relationships and connect with others." Cook has also emphasized the importance of finding ways to recharge and take breaks, which is essential for introverted individuals. He has said that he tries to make time for himself to relax and recharge, which helps him to be more effective in his work.
Introverted leaders have a wealth of skills and talents to offer, and as these leaders prove, being an introvert doesn't hold you back from achieving great things. In fact, it can be a major advantage. As Susan Cain, author and speaker on the topic of introverts, has said, "There's zero correlation between being the best talker and having the best ideas."
It's time to ditch the stereotype that all great leaders have to be extroverted. Introverted executives bring a unique set of skills and qualities to the table that can make them just as effective, if not more so, in certain situations. From their ability to think deeply and reflect on problems, to their strong communication skills and leadership by example, introverted executives have a lot to offer. So the next time you're considering a leadership role, don't let your introverted personality hold you back. Embrace your unique strengths and skills, and show the world what you're capable of.