Despite what many people believe, you are not limited to a fixed set of characteristics. You can have a blend of both introverted and extroverted tendencies. I tend to identify as an introvert exhibiting extroverted characteristics depending on the situation or need. There were many times I had to self-reflect and truly understand my personality type, strengths, weaknesses, and characteristics. Understand key elements that made me thrive in the least preferable settings, whether that’s at work, school, or public spaces. If you connect with some of these feelings, read the following 3 things you should know to be successful as an introvert in extrovert settings.
I am that girl, I happen to be placed in the introvert/extrovert category but that’s cool because you can easily harness your strengths and partner with extroverts for the rest.
1. Understand your strengths and personality type
I have taken the Gallup Strength test to better understand my strengths, justify my behavior and personality. What I like about the Gallup Strength test is that upon completion, you are given five dominant themes of talent (strengths) out of 34 themes measured. There is also a detailed description of each strength to make sense of your talents. My top 5 are Positivity, Includer, Empathy, Realtor, and Developer. These talents are a reflection of how I interact with people. Once you have a clear understanding of your strengths and weaknesses you can identify ways to function in extroverted settings.
2. Explore technological resources
Tap into these forms of communications and make connections through platforms like Linkedin, Facebook, or Instagram. As an introvert, I’ve had instances where I could not strike up the courage to speak with someone at a networking event but later reach out to them via socials like Linkedin and made a professional connection there.
And Lastly,
3. Stay true to yourself
I think this is the number one thing you should know as an introvert, to be successful in extrovert settings. You will not be hated by someone for not attending a large gathering, skipping happy hour after work ( I know I did sometimes) or talking to very little people. In order for you to be authentic and show up for yourself you must be yourself.
