Power of the Introvert; See you in Nashville!

Written by Anthony Demangone

Businesses are amazing.  People from different walks of life gather together for 40 or more hours a week to work on common goals. 

While we work together as one company, every workforce is made up by a diverse group of individuals.  We'll have different races. Religions. Backgrounds.  Educations.  Ages.    

My views on diversity expanded a bit when a colleague shared a wonderful video with me.  In it, Susan Cain speaks about the power of introverts.  If you lead people, you need to watch this video. 

In the video, Cain discusses the world through the eyes of an introvert.  She argues that workplaces and schools now cater to extroverts.  The outward mannerisms of extroverts are applauded, while introverts often are seen as meek or shy. 

She also notes that, as employees, introverts thrive in quiet areas and in personal projects.  Their talents, however, don't come out in brainstorming sessions. 

So, I'll leave you with these questions.  Does your workplace value introverts? Does it unwittingly favor extroverts?  Does all of this matter?

Have a great weekend, guys.

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If you are coming to NAFCU's Annual Conference next week, please stop and say hello.  I'll be here and there, but I'd love to hear from you.  And if time permits, perhaps we could share a cup of coffee.  I'd love to hear your thoughts on people, organizations, leadership, the future of our great industry, and Major League Baseball's decision to add an additional wild-card playoff berth.

Safe travels.

Comments

[DJ]

Wow. Suddenly, I don't feel so bad that I don't love the spotlight. I am one of those introverted people that yesterday would have described myself as "shy." And, just today did I realize that I had considered that trait unlucky. This is what I love about life . . . learning something new each day! This something new happens to be about myself. Thank you!

[Anthony Demangone]

DJ - you are welcome, and I'm glad you enjoyed that video. I found her insight to be eye-opening. The more I learn...the more I realize that there's a ton more to learn! Especially about what makes a human being tick. Thanks for reading, DJ.