- This topic has 7 replies, 6 voices, and was last updated 1 month, 3 weeks ago by Goksen Caliskan.
I am one of those who identifies herself as a big introvert even though I may be seen as an extrovert from outside in most cases. I think I’ve learned to manage it over time 🙂
Early in my career, I fell into the trap of thinking leadership is synonymous with being an extrovert. I soon realised that I was wrong big time, especially when I slowly started to get challenged with various leadership opportunities.
In that sense, this topic speaks so close to my heart.
For me, one of the perks of an introverted leader is their listening and observation skills.
Especially in the early stages of my career for instance, I often hesitated to be a loud voice in the room. Instead, I was watching, noticing, and connecting dots from how people reacted to certain ideas, to the subtle changes in tone during a meeting, to the unspoken dynamics between colleagues. That quiet attention turned into a skill over time: understanding the psychology of teams and organisations and communication of my observations, analysis during one-on-one meetings. In time, I learned to use this to my advantage. Even though I am (need to be) way more vocal than before, I still hang onto these skill set. They help me anticipate challenges, sense when something’s off, and address them in the right set up.
The second is creating space for others to shine. As an introvert, I’m always comfortable stepping back from the spotlight, which naturally gives room for others’ contributions to come forward. It’s very intentional. When I try to make sure everyone’s voice has a chance to be heard, I’ve witnessed that usually better ideas emerge and as a consequence we have a stronger buy-in from the team.
I can actually add a third one which I believe is so crucial, and that is managing my energy. I know better now when to push, when to hold back, and when to step away to recharge my batteries, or what to pay more attention to. That balance means I can stay focused in high-pressure situations, remain present in important conversations, and avoid burning out all while making sure the people around me get the best version of me.
Any introverts out there? I’d love to hear your experiences!
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I am one of those who identifies herself as a big introvert even though I may be seen as an extrovert from outside in most cases. I think I’ve learned to manage it over time 🙂
Early in my career, I fell into the trap of thinking leadership is synonymous with being an extrovert. I soon realised that I was wrong big time, especially when I slowly started to get challenged with various leadership opportunities.
In that sense, this topic speaks so close to my heart.
For me, one of the perks of an introverted leader is their listening and observation skills.
Especially in the early stages of my career for instance, I often hesitated to be a loud voice in the room. Instead, I was watching, noticing, and connecting dots from how people reacted to certain ideas, to the subtle changes in tone during a meeting, to the unspoken dynamics between colleagues. That quiet attention turned into a skill over time: understanding the psychology of teams and organisations and communication of my observations, analysis during one-on-one meetings. In time, I learned to use this to my advantage. Even though I am (need to be) way more vocal than before, I still hang onto these skill set. They help me anticipate challenges, sense when something’s off, and address them in the right set up.
The second is creating space for others to shine. As an introvert, I’m always comfortable stepping back from the spotlight, which naturally gives room for others’ contributions to come forward. It’s very intentional. When I try to make sure everyone’s voice has a chance to be heard, I’ve witnessed that usually better ideas emerge and as a consequence we have a stronger buy-in from the team.
I can actually add a third one which I believe is so crucial, and that is managing my energy. I know better now when to push, when to hold back, and when to step away to recharge my batteries, or what to pay more attention to. That balance means I can stay focused in high-pressure situations, remain present in important conversations, and avoid burning out all while making sure the people around me get the best version of me.
Any introverts out there? I’d love to hear your experiences!
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Introvert here! Haha. Thank you so much for sharing. I am learning to embrace my perks and use them for the good of others and myself too. So yes, I will manage my energy and be patient even when the environment wants to force me to be rushed. I strongly refuse to and trust me, it’s a struggle because rush often wins. Like everything in life, I am learning to be balanced too. Where I see that my intervertness doesn’t serve others or myself, I will unlearn them.
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Thanks, Goksen, as an extrovert, I’ve found my leadership strengths often come from energy, openness, and connection. I naturally thrive in interactions—brainstorming, team discussions, quick stand-ups—and that energy can set the tone for the group. Because I process things while talking, I tend to be transparent and approachable, which builds trust quickly. I also enjoy building broad networks, often bringing in fresh perspectives and opportunities for the team. Of course, I’ve had to learn balance—sometimes slowing down to make space for quieter voices—but over time I’ve realised leadership isn’t about being extrovert or introvert, it’s about using your natural tendencies wisely for the team’s benefit.
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Introvert here! Haha. Thank you so much for sharing. I am learning to embrace my perks and use them for the good of others and myself too. So yes, I will manage my energy and be patient even when the environment wants to force me to be rushed. I strongly refuse to and trust me, it’s a struggle because rush often wins. Like everything in life, I am learning to be balanced too. Where I see that my intervertness doesn’t serve others or myself, I will unlearn them.
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