Stop Telling Introverts to Act Like Extroverts
Wow I just read the Harvard business review that said stop telling extroverts to be extroverted when they're not. I am telling people that forever.
I agree 100%, why do we tell people to be something they're not? Why do we try to teach people things that they don't want to be taught? It makes them unhappy. Or afraid, or feel like a lesser human being.
Here is the Summary:
It’s well-known that engaging in extroverted activities such as networking and public speaking can help people advance their careers. Research has further suggested that in some cases, even naturally introverted people may be energized and feel better in the moment when engaging in these behaviors. However, studies have also shown that acting more extroverted than you are can take a substantial mental toll in the longer-term, leading to lower energy levels and potentially cancelling out the personal and professional benefits. As such, the authors argue that naturally more-introverted people should carefully weigh the benefits of putting on an extroverted face, and should make sure to give themselves time to recharge if and when they do decide to participate in extroverted activities.
“For example, going to a networking event might be an opportunity to meet people that can help you grow professionally and get more excited about your work. But if you’re an introvert, these events can also be so exhausting that you become stressed and ineffective, ultimately cancelling out any potential benefits to your career or to your wellbeing.”
Some of those introverted people try to network, they force themselves to accommodate the situation. Some end up in the back of the room and become wall flowers. Maybe they look at the ground. Stressful and not beneficial, lots of time people think the introvert doesn’t like them and they don’t bother engaging. Lost opportunities .
In working with entrepreneurs we work with introverts as well as extroverts. Study shows extroverts make more money. Do we teach or motivate people to be more extraverted? NO
One of the things that we teach all of our entrepreneurs is the universal management principles it takes four things to run a business. What if we put the extrovert on the team? Have them do what they love- social events, talking to people. Making the entrepreneur look good, takes away the stress and ultimately the enterprise is more successful.
And yet some traditional economic development programs suggest that they have to do everything; do the math, make the product serve the customer and sell it. Introverted people try to play extroverted . left brain vs right brain.
Stop telling people to do things they don't want to do, don't try to teach people skills they don't want to be taught.
I know myself, I can stand on stage and address 200 people but I freeze after the network event. I need someone by my side, that extroverted person who loves to meet new people and talk. I practice our own methodology so I get to do what I love and just as importantly, I love our team. Never be alone.
Try to be hearing impaired in a room full of people….