Just this morning, as I was discussing writing this article with a friend, the conversation naturally turned to what personality types we each were. I could not classify myself as either one and subsequently came to the conclusion that I’m what’s called an ambivert. In other words, I have personality traits of both. At times, I can be very social and fairly outgoing when the occasion calls for it. But unlike extroverts who will stay until the party ends, after a short while, I’d like to retreat to my quiet place at home and be more reflective.
The definition of an ambivert is a perfect fit for me. And I’ve come to realize my success in the workplace can be attributed to drawing from my occasional extroversion when the situation called for it, but more than likely, my introverted tendencies.
For decades, it was a commonly held belief that extroverts are the real winners in the workplace. We’ve always expected extroverts to have the charisma and natural ability to lead; to connect and influence others. Our assumption, therefore, has always been that extroverts have a real advantage over introverts playing the political game.
But Susan Cain’s bestseller, Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, first changed our perspective with its launch in 2012. In her book, we learned that introverts can influence in a quiet yet effective manner and have the ability and potential to emerge as powerful leaders.
In my book, The Politics of Promotion: How High Achieving Women Get Ahead and Stay Ahead, I address the importance of being politically savvy for career success. But my curiosity about the specific ability of introverts to master workplace politics and utilize the tools I outline in the book’s political toolkit, led me to reach out to Jennifer Kahnweiler, author of Quiet Influence, for answers.
Here are Jennifer’s responses on the topic.
It is a common assumption that you need to be an extrovert to be politically savvy. What are your thoughts? Is it a disadvantage to be an introvert or can it be an advantage? If so, how is it an advantage?
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