I remember several years ago reading an article that suggested the majority of senior leaders think extroversion is necessary to be effective as a senior leader. Obviously—and hopeful I am correct—I disagree. And, I think we’ve come a long way in our thinking. Thankfully.
In fact, I see benefits in being an introverted senior leader.
I also know people who can’t believe I can pastor a large church and be introverted. I’ve written before about the
false assumptions of introverts. Introverts can be just as caring, loving and “shepherding” as extroverts. It’s a personality trait, not a heart monitor.
But, again, I see benefits in being a lead pastor and an introvert.
Here are seven ways introversion works well for me as a senior leader:
1. I think first and speak later.
I don’t stick my foot in my mouth very many times. I’m not saying extroverts do, but I am saying that as an introvert I tend to choose my words very carefully. One characteristic of the personality is we don’t speak quickly. We choose our words more intentionally. Understand, I do say things I regret, but it doesn’t happen often.
2. I’m less likely to struggle with the loneliness of leadership.
This is a real leadership emotion, and I certainly have it some, but I’m very comfortable being alone in a room with my thoughts. Long runs by myself are energizing to me. I know many extroverted leaders who can get very lonely—and some days for them are very difficult, especially when they are in the midst of harder leadership decisions.
3. I create intentional moments.
My introversion forces me to be very intentional about my time interacting with others. I say continually to introverted leaders—introversion should never be a crutch or an excuse for not engaging with people. Leadership is a relational process for all of us. But, my relational time is very focused. I tend to make the most of my time. A calendar is one of my essential leadership tools. Sunday mornings I’m the most extroverted person in our church building. It’s strategic, intentional and I enjoy it—because I truly love people—even though it is draining.
4. It’s easy to concentrate on the big picture.
You’ll seldom find me chit-chatting. It’s not that I don’t have casual conversations—I certainly do when I’m connecting with people—but communication for me is usually very purposeful. As a result, I tend to be able to be very big picture oriented. Very strategic in my thinking. I step back and observe everything often. I’m a deep thinker. Those are traits especially strong with most introverts. That has proven to be very profitable for my leadership and the teams I lead.
5. Processed randomness.
People often wonder if I know how to have fun. “Pastor you seem so serious” or “What do you do for fun?” I hear comments like this frequently. Those are usually people who only see me when I’m working and don’t know me very well. And, I do work hard, but I can sometimes be seen as the class clown too—by those who get to know me. Some of this comes through online. But when those times occur, they are usually intentional times. My work is caught up, I have done all the things I have to get done, and I’m ready to “come out and play.” This quality can be in extroverts or introverts, but for me as an introvert, they are more intentional moments than spontaneous.
6. I network intentionally.
I recognize the value of every conversation I have. So, I have lots of conversations. Every Sunday is a gold mine of networking opportunities. Plus, I meet dozens of people every week in the community where I serve. I enjoy meeting people knowing that people are my purpose—and I love people—I really do. More than this, I love how God wants to develop and grow people, and I see my role in that as a teacher. People are the reason for everything I do.
7. I tend to listen well.
People on my team usually have a very good chance of having their voice heard, because in any meeting setting, I don’t feel the need to be the one always talking. My introversion allows me to be quiet, sit back, listen, and reflect and offer input when and where most needed.
Sure there are struggles with being an introvert at times, but I have found it to be a blessing in my leadership. It is who I am—it is NOT a curse. Much of that has to do with how I manage my introversion in an often very extroverted world.
How does introversion make you an effective leader?
