It is good to be quiet: How Introverts Contribute to the Workplace

There have been several books recently published that address a new diversity dimension: the introvert (Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking by Susan Cain and The Introvert Advantage: How to Thrive in an Extrovert World by Marti Olsen Laney are recommended).

As an extrovert, I am intrigued by the long overdue recognition for the introvert. America's estimated 80 to 160 million introverts are speaking out about what they bring to the workplace. An example of the recognition for the introvert is exemplified by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation which has office spaces for the introvert; quiet rooms where they can think and work. Introverts have many talents that balance the extrovert. They tend to be better listeners and are more cautious and deliberate, thinking things through before they make a decisions. Solitude is critical to creativity. Many social scientists argue we need a balance between extroverts and introverts. Of course, the workplace should strive to have a place for both. But remember, we are a culture that tends to value the extrovert so deliberate and conscious inclusion and the elimination of bias against introverts need to be the focus to tap into their potential. Understanding that we all have different work styles is key to high functioning teams.

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