How Introverts Can Survive in Extroverted Work Environments

How Introverts Can Survive in Extroverted Work Environments How Introverts Can Survive in Extroverted Work Environments Personality is not a matter of black and white.  However, many popular personality tests create misconceptions  that cause people to place themselves and others in tightly confined boxes. As a result, people learn to count themselves out when it comes to certain talents or traits. After all, according to their test results, theyre not supposed to have those talents or traits! Introverts tend to have it especially bad in this respect. Thats why the first step introverts need to take toward survival in the workplace is to forget everything theyve learned about what it means to be an introvert. Introverts are neither  antisocial  nor unable to communicate. Introverts are just as capable of  making friends with their  colleagues as extroverts are! If youre an introvert, you are not destined to fail in a fast-paced business atmosphere. In fact, as an introvert, your career can take you anywhere. You can even become CEO! Heres how introverted employees can not only survive, but thrive in an extroverted world: 1. Understand What Introversion  Truly Means An introvert is someone who mentally recharges in the quiet, away from others. They are drawn to projects that emphasize individual talent or the talent of small teams. Often, introverts would rather communicate with  a few people or via digital channels. People used to believe extroverts made better leaders and introverts didnt want the responsibility of guiding teams and projects. This misconception resulted in many introverts being overlooked for promotions. Though often conceived as shy, introverts are just better at concentrating when theres little chaos around them. That does not mean an introverted manager couldnt organize a chaotic environment. Rather, it simply means that introverts tend to be happier when they can put all their attention into the task at hand. 2. Accept Your Faults; Everyone Has Them This is stating the obvious, but no human is perfect. We all make mistakes â€" but at least that evens the playing field a bit.  The flip-side of this fact is that we all have the opportunity to improve ourselves and develop our skills. That being said, people do have their passions. Some passions equip people with certain talents. Whether youre already employed or seeking a new job/promotion, its important consider your passions and the talents they may relate to. Look at your previous positions or personal hobbies. Delve into your skills, then do the same for your weaknesses. Be critical. Create a handy reference sheet for yourself. Remind yourself and your leaders what you have to offer, then take conscious steps to improve in the areas where needed. Of course, the assessment of passions, talents, and weaknesses isnt limited to introverts. Ambiverts and extroverts should engage in this exercise, too, if they want to get the most out of their careers. 3. Know Your Boundaries, Both Emotional and Physical Too many of us neglect our mental and physical health at work â€" especially our mental health.  We know working after midnight will affect our energy levels the following day, but do we ever stop to think about how much work we can handle before were too stressed to be productive? Introverts especially need to watch out for their well-being at work.  Extroverts, generally speaking, love continuous meetings and constant teamwork. This work style isnt  ideal for those on the opposite end  of the spectrum. Managers should empower introverts by offering them  time for concentration and giving them various office space choices. Meanwhile, introverts can take control of their schedules by blocking off time between meetings so that they can rest and recharge. â€" Managers, leaders, and employers, it is time to  let go of what you think you know about introverts and extroverts based on the 70-year-old Myers-Briggs assessment! Take a deeper look at the workplace values of your employees and colleagues. Some of the hardest-working, most dedicated, and highly skilled people come in quiet, unimposing packages. Respect their personalities.  Find out what each of your team members needs to succeed. Introverts, extroverts, and all who fall in-between are equally important to the success of any business. A version of this article originally appeared on the  Vitru blog. Ryan Mead  is the CEO and founder of  Vitru.