About this Blog
Since reading and getting trained in the late Jennifer White’s Work Less, Make More(R) program, I’ve been working with my clients (executives and business owners) to uncover, embrace and “exploit” their unique strengths as a means to be more effective and happy at work. Repeatedly, with clients and on my own behalf, I have seen how focusing on one’s strengths an be leveraged to improve harmony, integrity and effectiveness in the execution of work on a daily basis.
I was inspired to create this blog and focus on serving Introverts in Business within a few months of reading Dr. Laurie Helgoe’s “Introvert Power. “According to Laurie’s research, which I’ve since verified on my own, more than 50% of the population is, in fact, introverted by nature. Not all introverts are the same – obviously – but we do have a challenge. Introversion is not valued in business (though it is in Japan); extroversion is. Furthermore, review of my client list indicates that many of my clients, like me, tend towards introversion. Above all else, the biggest challenge to growing a business – or being a leader – is how to do so by being themselves!
You may be an Introvert if:
- The thought of business success, though desired, causes you to worry about being overwhelmed.
- You actually enjoy down time away from people – a lot
- You tend to retract your energy around people who dominate a conversation
- You are social, just in small doses with people with whom you can make a meaningful connection.
- You have been accused of being withdrawn or uncaring by those closest to you.
- You do much better in structured networking events than unstructured large group meeting.
- Party? That’s OK as long as you know and like the people in attendance.
Of course, not everything is absolute, and we all exist on a moving spectrum. Most of us are able to flex our muscles a bit if needed, and no, there is nothing wrong with us. However, in business, introversion is not usually regarded as a strength but as a sign of weakness. It’s not. Let’s explore, together, how we can use the tools of business, and natural preferences, to get work done and still enjoy and honor your natural personal style.
