Researchers estimate that about half of the population is introverted. These professionals tend to be observant, analytical and self-motivated. They usually don’t require much oversight and feel comfortable working on their own. However, introverted professionals may feel anxious about large group functions or on-the-spot questions. They may also experience social burnout faster than extroverted people.
So, how can you bring out the best in your introverted team members? According to writer Kelsey Ray Banerjee, you can start by identifying your sales reps who may be more reserved or slower to share than others on your team. You can then work to create the kind of environment that helps them do their best, but without demoralizing the extroverts on your team.
In this issue of Promotional Consultant Today, we share Banerjee’s seven ways to create workspaces that keep introverts in mind.
1. Create quiet spaces. Introverted people need space alone to recharge. In the office, consider designating a meeting room as a quiet workspace. People don’t necessarily need their own office—just somewhere to work in solitude sometimes.
2. Acknowledge boundaries. Some of your team members may not want to join in every team-building activity. Don’t pressure them to participate, says Banerjee. Accept that they may need some time away from the group.
3. Provide activities that appeal to introverts. While your introverted team members may not enjoy certain team-building activities, that doesn’t mean they don’t want to bond in other ways. Consider posting fun questions for team members to answer via Slack or Google Hangouts. Introverts may prefer this kind of team building than activities that put them on the spot, notes Banerjee.
4. Give them time. Another way you can bring out the best in introverted employees is to give them time to process details. They may want to contemplate a project’s scope or client concerns and then get back to you with ideas or questions.
5. Invite more written communication. Your introverted team members may feel more comfortable emailing questions or thoughts than speaking up in large groups. Keep discussions flowing in person to accommodate extroverts’ preferences but allow introverts to contribute via email. This helps give them the time and space they need to gather their thoughts.
6. Consider personality types. Leaders should consider the kind of activities that mesh with employees’ personality types. Matching job tasks with someone’s strengths can lead to better results and allow your team members a chance to shine, says Banerjee.
7. Moderate meetings. You can also help bring out the best in introverted employees by ensuring they get a chance to speak. Consider moderating group discussions to help your more reserved team members feel comfortable speaking up, recommends Banerjee.
Whether you work with only a couple introverted employees, or you have many introverts on your team, you can take steps to bring out their talent at work. From allowing them to contribute in different ways to giving them quiet spaces to work, there are many ways to create introvert-inclusive workplaces. Try some of the ideas above to see what resonates with your team.
Compiled by Audrey Sellers
Source: Kelsey Ray Banerjee is a freelance finance and business writer.