by Patricia Weber

Misconceptions continue about introvert and extrovert. One clarification to help each style or type work side by side more productively is that the difference is more correctly stated that people are either more introverted or more extroverted. Think of introvert and extrovert as verbs on a continuum. Meetings at work, brainstorming and talking around the water cooler are extroverting activities. Putting together a budget, a small team meeting and a quiet work space is more introverting. Activities like this that happen all day long, is about where and how people get energy. The workplace is also one place where when introvert meets extrovert, these preferences can clash. Knowing what each type prefers allows for greater acceptance, satisfaction and appreciation.

The brainstorming perspective. “Brainstorming or bouncing ideas around aloud excite me,” is an extraverting way of solving a problem. The out loud sharing process energizes an extrovert. Given a choice, the introvert would prefer to use analysis and thinking to come up with solutions. The next time someone passes on the first round of brainstorming, be ready as the ideas come around again. After some internal think time, the introvert is ready to contribute. Even better to get the best ideas from everyone would be to announce in advance a brainstorming meeting.

Socializing at work. There are many extraverting work activities that include socializing. The extroverts are usually the ones usually speaking while the introvert may appear quiet. The reality is that extroverts enjoy speaking no matter what size the group is; even their moving eye contact is taking in the energy outside of them. But an introvert’s best communication is one-to-one. When that quiet person around the cooler leaves the group sooner, you may have just been listened in on by an introvert going off to themselves to get charged up.

The nuisance of turf wars. It’s likely there is an imbalance of extroverts and introverts when people behave in ways that intrude on public or private work areas. Introverts generally respect people’s space more since their own workspace is a haven for recharging their energy. It’s not the extroverts are into wars, it’s just that extroverts energize themselves going from their space to someone else’s cubicle to a meeting to a cafeteria. Consider either selecting certain days for meetings, certain days that other people’s workspaces are off limits or even a quiet zone in the cafeteria. Both extroverts and introverts are creative so find a solution to balancing workspace for the highest productivity can be found.

Socializing after work. The art and science of networking is all about making and using contacts. Whether it’s to find a client, or a job, or a joint venture partner, business networking can be key to business success. Introverts aren’t always up for socializing after work in particular if their work includes more extroverting activities, like the introvert who finds themselves in public relations or sales. Extroverts are always up for socializing after work. While both will attend networking event, understand that if someone, likely an introvert, leaves early, it’s because they need to recharge. While extroverts will say and continue to join in small talk, introverts who leave early will connect with people for more in-depth conversations.

There are certainly many more characteristics of people’s styles and preferences. Since all energy – physical, mental, emotional, even spiritual – is used as people go about their daily work responsibilities, an understanding of the true meaning of introvert and extrovert as relates to the workplace can make it a place of harmony and high productivity.

Patricia Weber, Business Sales Coach for Introverts, Shy and Reluctant; Blogging at http://www.patricia-weber.com For information contact at pweber@prostrategies.com