The work environment today is highly dynamic. Unfortunately, we are still at the point where it favors extroverts. When hiring and promoting more emphasis should be placed on cultural alignment as we find that more people are not leaving jobs because of the job itself but because of the people. Employers seem to gravitate towards individuals who exude that loud confidence- the tell it like it is, talkative, social butterflies. While the extrovert personality works in some roles and workplaces, it is not the golden standard. Equal considerations must be given for all employees, whether introvert or extrovert. Just as we make considerations for race, age, sexual orientation and gender in the workplace, there must provisions in place to accommodate all personality types and work ethics. Assertion and extroversion should not be deciding factors, especially if the job itself does not require these skills.
Extroversion and Assertion
Today, quite a few job postings explicitly state the type of individual traits that they are looking for in the ideal candidate. You will see terms like "high degree of energy", "friendly/outgoing ", "excellent negotiation skills", "excellent presentation skills" etc., even when the job itself has nothing to do with that. I actually just checked LinkedIn in and saw these same phrases in several job listings. It would seem that more employers are trying to create an atmosphere or organizational culture that is fun and family oriented. While this might be the consensus at the management level, what do your employees actually prefer? An atmosphere of togetherness inkeeping with the company's culture, vision and mission should not always mean social gatherings. Maybe it is time to reexamine how we define and celebrate teamwork and company culture.
An extrovert who chooses to present the work done by a team of individuals should not be the only one who gets promoted. Even the introverts who designed the presentation had an input on the correct way to present the information. Extroverts are usually given preferential treatment because they apparently take the 'initiative' more than others. This sometimes means that they are happy to attend social gatherings, charismatic, grab lunch for the boss, and are friends/friendly with all the right people. They are also more on the assertive side and assert that loud confidence that may make demands and delegates at the expense of others. It is true that the American workplace favors extroverts and assertiveness and while being assertive can be a necessity for certain jobs, in some cases it plays out as micromanagement and toxicity.
Introverts in the Workplace
Believe it or not, there are some people who enjoy their work but in a different way. They focus on the work that they have to do in order to move the company to the next level. They pride themselves on that and put their efforts into making the company what it is. Most may not care too much for the company retreats or the extra socializing outside of work conversations. This should not be seen as a bad thing. Quiet confidence still gets the job done really well. Being approachable with thoughtful communication skills will create more harmony amongst employees. Introversion should not be misunderstood to be a person who has a fear of speaking, expressing themselves, delegating tasks or finds it difficult to communicate. They should also not be stereotyped or marginalized. Introverts are:
Generally quiet but speak when they need to. They are not afraid to ask hard questions or make tough decisions. Introverts exude a quiet calm confidence that makes them approachable to employees.
They are contemplative and insightful communicators who don't just make things up to pull a crowd. They focus on the facts and creating a clear picture of their step by step plan.
Of course, they are very organized and methodical when doing their work. Precision, accuracy and accountability marks an introvert.
They delegate tasks well and some introverts more than others are very blunt and direct, as they have no energy to waste on beating around the bushes. They would rather avoid a long conversation by just getting straight to the point.
Generally, they tend to be committed to the company and do the bulk of the work in the background to ensure that the necessary tasks are completed to keep the company afloat.
Equal Opportunity for Both Sides of the Coin
We should try to institute fair hiring practices. An extrovert personality should not automatically equate to confidence, assertion and the person to get the job done. Introversion should not equate to shy, low confidence or the inability to complete a task well. Both introverts and extroverts have their own unique abilities and qualities. We are all capable in our own ways. That means that both should equally be considered for promotions and employment opportunities. We should focus on each individual's strengths and weaknesses and align the trajectory of their career alongside those traits and the vision of the role or company.
If you accommodate one, then you must make provisions for the other. On the other hand, it also depends on the type of job. Extroverts really do not belong in certain work environments and the same goes for introverts. We should also take into consideration the people who are a combination of both. As employers and managers, we must do our due diligence to promote and hire according to skills, experience and qualifications. It should be more than just handing over an opportunity to someone with the right personality. Perhaps it is time to do away with the labeling and focus on skill and personality match and how that measures up to the company's vision.
Are you feeling the pressure to achieve and succeed or do you think you should be further along in life? You are not alone, read about the Millennial Pressure.
Check out Workplace Toxicity or Cultural Misalignment on Medium. Find more tips by going to our Landing A Job category for career insights and new opportunities. Thank you for spending some time with me! Like, comment and share!
Shop VirtualMe for more career and school accessories for your success. Have you started using Grammarly? Try it for free!
Hiii