You Don’t Have to Be the Loudest Voice in the Room to Make an Impact!
Yet, introverts have so much to offer, if only a system of true inclusion existed. “Too many introverted professionals say they can’t pursue their dreams of a big career or owning a business because they don’t want to be ‘out there’ all the time’” says Aarons-Mele. Rather than waiting for organizational cultures to fully embrace introverts, there are six ways introverts can take their professional destinies into their own hands without the dreaded “fake it ‘til you make it”.
There is a common misconception that the best leaders are extremely social and outspoken. Yet, the skills that make leaders truly great are authentic to introverts. “Introverts tend to be good at listening, tuning in, solving problems and not feeling compelled to take up all the air in the room. These are amazing leadership tools that truly engage,” says Aarons-Mele.
Contrary to popular belief, communication skills are as much nurture as they are nature. It’s just a matter of focus and practice. “When I coach introverts on how to pitch or sell, I work with them on owning their expertise and being able to clearly articulate their unique value and credentials, understand how best to deliver their pitch and convey the expertise, and then let their natural skill and ability to problem solve do the rest,” says Aarons-Mele.
Introverts are skilled problem-solvers, a highly sought-after and rarely found capability. This is truly were introverts can have an edge. “Rather than trying to play catch up with extroverts, introverts should look for cultures that enable them to sit back, absorb and be Yoda-like! There is so much power in the person at the table who talks less but truly contributes wise and super strategic thinking,” says Aarons-Mele.