Historically, the workplace has been set up in a way for extroverts to thrive. Now, with record numbers of office workers punching in from home, often on their own, there’s an opportunity to find success in new ways and tap into different aspects of our personalities.
Jill Chang identifies as an “extreme introvert”, and her 2020 book, Quiet Is a Superpower: The Secret Strengths of Introverts in the Workplace, challenged many of the preconceptions about the more introverted among us. (To wit, she’s delivered more than 200 speeches and training sessions around the world.) As Chang explains:
“People have stereotypes of introverts being lone wolves, passive in contributing, even anti-social. But the fact is, introverts are oftentimes the ones who get things done without asking for credit, find solutions for their teammates, and are willing to do the work that nobody else wants to do or didn't even pay attention to.”
But that doesn’t mean extroverts should stop at just appreciating their introverted colleagues. There’s so much more we can all accomplish together. Chang continues:
“I believe that everyone on the introvert/extrovert spectrum is trying to learn from the other side. I think that extroverts are most eager to channel introverts’ superpower of listening. Listening is an art, and you'll find a whole new world by exploring that art.”
Here, Chang shares the stories, lessons, and studies that influenced her book, and offers a chance for even the most extroverted among us to understand the rich inner lives of those around us—and appreciate it within ourselves.
Your Hidden Personality [LISTEN]
WorkLife with Adam GrantYou might not know yourself as well as you think.
Have You Ever Felt That You’re in the Wrong Place in Your Career, in Your Life?
Quiet RevolutionOur work preferences and our life preferences do not stay the same, because we do not stay the same.
How to Create Introvert-Friendly Workplaces During and Post Covid-19
Thrive GlobalThese seven key organizational practices will help to create more introvert-inclusive cultures and work practices.
An Introvert’s Advice for Networking
TED IdeasSelf-described introvert and veteran tech executive Karen Wickre shares her secret to cultivating professional connections with a minimum of anxiety and awkwardness.
Hard Work Isn't Enough: How to Find Your Edge
Working KnowledgeA new strategy for uncovering and showcasing your unique value in the face of obstacles.
Introverts, Extroverts, and the Complexities of Team Dynamics
Harvard Business ReviewMost workplaces are set up exclusively with extroverts in mind, a fact that becomes clear when you look at traits associated with the two personality types.
Yes, Even Introverts Can Be Lonely Right Now
The New York TimesIntroverts crave connection, too—we just need more boundaries.
Here's How Ambitious Introverts Are Secret Weapons in Negotiation
Forbes“Ambition is not limited by personality type.”
How Introverts Flourish at Work with Morra Aarons-Mele [LISTEN]
How to be Amazing at Your JobMorra Aarons-Mele provides tips for the ambitious introvert to succeed at work and strategies on how extroverts and introverts can best work together.
How International Students Succeed at U.S. Job Searches
Psychology TodayIntroverts have unexpected advantages in even the toughest job markets.
BONUS VIDEO: Quiet Is The New Superpower: Voices From The Introvert Revolution
YouTubeJoin authors Jennifer Kahnweiler and Jill Chang as they share their insights into how to use your strengths as an introvert to become more successful within your career, and learn how to navigate extroverted settings without compromising comfort or personality.
Jill Chang
Jill Chang is currently the Asia Pacific network manager of Give2Asia, an international nonprofit organization. She has over fifteen years of experience working in cross-disciplinary marketing across sectors, including working with Major League Baseball, the US government, long-term medical care providers, international businesses, and international public welfare strategy consultants. She is a graduate of leadership programs at Harvard University and Tsinghua University in Beijing.