It’s a commonly held belief that the leaders of the world are exclusively extroverts. This couldn’t be any more false. There are many great leaders out there who are introverts. Some of the most renowned include Bill Gates, Hillary Clinton, and Barak Obama. They use the traits associated with being an introvert as strengths to grow as powerful figures.
You may need a little help to get there but achieving your dream of leadership is completely possible. Work on these 8 challenging things that introverts need to do to become great leaders and you are guaranteed success.
1. Practice Talking to People
It’s likely that, as an introvert, talking to people isn’t your strong point. Working as a leader, being able to speak to anyone is invaluable. Practice talking to people, especially new people, as often as you can. It will become easier the more you do it.
2. Move Out of Your Comfort Zone
Staying within your regular boundaries is definitely easier, but it won’t help you to improve your leadership skills. Push yourself to try new things and meet new people. It will be difficult at first, but you’ll quickly get the hang of it.
3. Act More Confident Than You Are
You’ll often hear people telling you to “fake it until you make it.” It may sound like a load of rubbish but acting confident is a proven way to improve your self-esteem. Doing so will also make other people believe that you are the confident, badass leader that you have the potential to become.
4. Work on Your Communication Skills
Communication will be your most valuable weapon as a leader in any field. Work on improving how you communicate with others. You can practice writing important letters or emails, giving pep talks, or even giving speeches in front of the mirror. Any form of practice in communication is time well spent.
5. Use Technology to Your Advantage
Introverts often find it easier to communicate with people through text or email. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Rely on technology whenever you can to help you. Sometimes it’s even more efficient to send someone an email than it is to speak them in person.
6. Remember to Listen
Even if you’re a great leader, everything isn’t always about your opinions alone. You’ll need to learn to listen to your team. Find out their views and suggestions and use those to improve yourself or your brand.
7. Establish Empathy as Your Strength
Empathy is one of the most well-known traits of introverts. Be sure to use this power to your advantage. Establish yourself as a kind, understanding leader. It will give your team a new layer of respect for you.
8. Take Some Time for Yourself
It’s tiring for an introvert to be around people all day long. Don’t push yourself too hard. Try to take some time for yourself to recharge before going back out into the world. If you don’t, you may find yourself becoming emotionally exhausted.
There’s no reason why introverts can’t succeed in becoming amazing, powerful leaders. With a little work, commitment, and patience, it’s completely possible for everyone. Follow these lessons to greatly improve your leadership skills.
If you know an introvert who dreams of being a great leader one day, share this article with them. They can easily learn to become one of the best leaders out there.
