8 Strengths of Introverts - Introvert Whisperer

Introvert Whisperer / 8 Strengths of Introverts - Introvert Whisperer 8 Strengths of Introverts   Introversion can, sometimes, feel like a barrier when it comes to job hunting. Extroverts seem so much better suited to the processes of seeking new opportunities and impressing people they’ve never met before, and then settling in to being part of a team. But it’s important to remember that any team needs a mixture of personalities and skills, and employers are increasingly understanding the value of diversity in hiring. Alongside that, there are some particular strengths that come with introversion that we shouldn’t hesitate to talk about. So, before you go to your next interview, think about the positive things that being an introvert brings to a team, and try and work examples into your answers to interview questions. Here are a few to get you started: It’s easy to recharge All an introvert needs to recharge their metaphorical batteries is to spend some time alone, preferably at home. While others might need to go out, spending time money socialising, we can bounce back simply by closing the curtains and taking a few deep breaths. That translates to less late nights and hangovers. Independence Introverts prefer to work on their own, and so they tend to find ways to manage without involving other colleagues. This gives them a resourcefulness that their more gregarious colleagues don’t share. Introverts tend to be self-motivated and willing and able to take on responsibility. They don’t need a team of cheerleaders to get them to the finish line. Self-sufficiency is particularly important if you’re looking to work from home, full or part-time. Remote workers need to be able to solve their own problems, particularly if they work in different timezones to other team members. Focus Introverts tend to look at a situation from the outside in. That gives a different perspective to those who are caught up in the middle of the hustle and bustle of a situation. Being able to see things differently is a big advantage when it comes to problem-solving, and for tasks like risk assessments. The introvert is more likely to see the big picture, rather than get caught up in the detail. And that focus can come in handy when you have to play the extrovert and socialise. When you listen to people and memorise what they tell you, you will always have something to talk about when you find yourself in more social situations. Something Worth Listening To If an introvert speaks at a meeting, it’s worth listening. You won’t catch us talking just to hear the sound of our own voices. Introverts will only speak when they have something that they believe is of value to the whole group to share. Introverts tend to think carefully before they say anything, that not only means they’re likely to have a well thought out opinion, but they will probably put it over concisely. More Grey Matter Did you know there are actual differences in the brain structure of introverts and extroverts? A Harvard Study suggests that introverts have bigger, thicker grey matter in their pre-frontal cortices; the part of the brain that deals with planning, decision-making and moderating social behaviour. The authors of the study think that may be why introverts tend to sit back and consider while they’re more extroverted colleagues are ready to leap in head first. Subtlety Introverts prefer to avoid confrontation, so they are often able to solve problems in more subtle ways. Expect an introvert to handle issues with quiet conversations and mediation rather than by laying down the law. Introverts wield influence, that forward-thinking coming into play again as they determine how best to achieve what needs to be done. The Future is Made for Introverts As technological advances encourage remote working, and in-person communication gives way to text messages, email and chat, so the world becomes a more level playing field for the introvert. It’s probably no coincidence that this is the case, given some of the most influential figures in technology are also introverts including Bill Gates, Larry Page, Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk are all considered to be introverts. The future is introverted, because we’re making it that way. Teaming Up Great things can happen when introverts and extroverts work together. Consider Apple and it’s founders, Steve Jobs, the ‘front-man’ and Steve Wozniak, the man behind the curtain to Jobs’ Wizard of Oz. If you’re a very introverted person then it’s well worth considering a partnership with someone who is your opposite in that respect. Between the two of you, you could change the world. Author Bio: Sarah Dixon writes for Inspiring Interns, which specialises in sourcing candidates for  internships. To browse our  graduate jobs London listings, visit our website. Go to top   Let me emphasize that Self-Promotion doesn’t have to be obnoxious to be effective.  But, if you don’t Self-Promote you, who will? If you ever want to get ahead, you have to learn how to Self-Promote. I want to help you accelerate your career by connecting you with your Free Instant Access to my video that shows you simple, yet effective ways to Self-Promote. Start watching now by clicking here! Brought to you by Dorothy Tannahill-Moran â€" dedicated to unleashing your professional potential. Introvert Whisperer