Introverts can make good business leaders

Jennifer B. Kahnweiler, an author and president an Atlanta-based leadership consultancy, maintains that good business executives do not have to be extroverts. In fact, she argues that some of the best leaders are low key and quiet, but still make a big impact.

"It has been reported that a full 40 percent of executives describe themselves as introverts, including Microsoft's Bill Gates, the über-investors Warren Buffett and Charles Schwab, Avon's chief executive, Andrea Jung, and the late publishing giant Katharine Graham," said Kahnweiler.

The business consultant, writing in Forbes.com, offered five key characteristics that help introverted leaders build on their quiet strength in order to succeed. While her advice applies to the broader business community, the lessons certainly apply to leaders in the IT world. The positive characteristics of an introverted leader include:

• They think first, talk later. Introverted leaders "consider others' comments carefully, and they stop and reflect before responding," she said.
• They focus on depth. They delve into issues and ideas before moving on to new ones, and are drawn to meaningful conversations, not superficiality. They know how to ask questions and listen.
• They exude calm. "In times of crisis, they project a reassuring, calm confidence--think President Obama--and they speak softly and slowly regardless of the heat of the conversation or circumstances," said Kahnweiler.
• They let their fingers do the talking. Introverted leaders usually prefer writing to talking, often helping them articulate their positions and document their actions.
• They embrace solitude. They are energized by spending time alone, using the solitude to fuel their thinking, creativity and decision-making. When there is pressure, they can be responsive instead of reactive.

For more on quiet but effective leaders and how it can help you as an IT leader:
- see this Forbes.com article

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