Four Tips for Helping Introverts Thrive in the Workplace
Quiet. Antisocial. Timid. These are just a couple of the many words that some employers use to describe introverts. Often exemplified as those who confine themselves to their work cubicles, introverts often get a bad rap, especially in a growing workforce that seems to be tailored toward extroverted counterparts.
Studies show that at least ⅓ of Americans are introverts, but somehow, this does not seem to be a reflection of the modern-day office environment that boasts of collaborative work spaces that include open-concept office layouts, impromptu ice-breaker and brainstorm sessions and more. It’s the kind of thing of nightmares for those who seek refuge in the quiet corners of their cubicles.
But how can the world of introverted personalities fit in with the corporate environment that is filled with extroverted individuals in line to take over the universe? The simple answer would be for introverts to learn to adapt to their surroundings. However, this can cause introverted workers to be less productive, which in turn offers more stress and isolation. It’s up to the bosses to take the reins to make offices a place where ALL personalities can put their best foot forward. Here are some useful tips on how employers can make workspaces more introvert-friendly to unleash rockstar talent.
Let Them Brainstorm Before or After the Meeting
Introverts aren’t the best at thinking of ideas and expressing them on the spot. They spend lots of time compiling and analyzing data in their heads to formulate the best plan to put into action. This can prove frustrating for employers who notice the lack of input during important brainstorm meetings and can leave them thinking that introverts have nothing to contribute. Take a different approach to brainstorm meetings by giving introverts the time to come up with ideas beforehand that they can expound upon during the session. Additionally, an even better option would be to let them compile their thoughts afterward and send them via email or a presentation. You’ll find that they can still contribute just as much when they have the time to think alone.
Offer Quiet Spaces or Hours
Contrary to popular belief, introverts do love their co-workers. Really. However, open-concept environments can prove to be a sensory overload for many of introverts who depend on quiet time to think, grow and to recharge. If your office has the space, allow employees to reserve time in a quiet office room to get work done, or offer flex hours for working from home. The extra time alone can do wonders for productivity.
Let Them Flaunt Their Strengths
One of the biggest reasons why introverts are so quiet is because they’re busy listening. Introverts love to listen and will often remember the smallest, most miniscule details of a conversation. They are also extremely good writers and will often use the things that they’ve observed from their surroundings as a creative focal point for formulating some of the best pieces of work. These are just a couple of the many wonders that introverted personalities provide. Helping them to identify their strengths and cultivate them will help your business thrive as well.
Encourage Them To Lead
Say, what? Introverts make for great leaders? It may be surprising to many, but they really do have a knack for leadership under the right circumstance. One of their strongest qualities in leadership is their ability to be empathetic. According to a recent study by Harvard Business School, introverted leaders take more time to listen and formulate ways to incorporate the ideas of all team members in the work environment. For introverts, it’s not about “I”, it’s about “WE.” Introverts see projects and teamwork as an intricate entity where everyone’s thoughts and ideas have a way of contributing to the big picture.
As the workplace continues to change and Millennials join full-force, it’s going to be more important than ever for businesses to diversify their workspaces to cater to a multitude of different personalities. The truth of the matter is, everyone learns and thrives at their own pace. By showing that you’re in-tune with this can prove to set your business apart from the rest and your business will succeed and prosper as a result.