Our recent article about introverts attracted an above-average number of readers. We have also discussed the topic in our LinkedIn group. We agreed that managers should know how to help their introverted employees achieve their best possible work performance.
For those of you who have not joined the discussion yet, or those who still have some room for improvement in your approach to introverts, we have prepared further recommendations, this time with the help of Inc.com. First of all, we recommend watching the TED talk by Susan Cain on introverts or read her book on how to succeed in an extroverted world called Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking (published also in Czech Ticho – Síla introvertů ve světě, který nikdy nepřestává mluvit, Jan Melvil Publishing, 2012).
Do not distract them
Introverts are very sensitive to being distracted from their work. It is harder for them to get their concentration back once they have lost it. Managers should therefore make every effort to disturb their introverted subordinates only if absolutely necessary, and generally teach their people not to distract each other.
Leave them alone for a while
Tell your introverted people clearly that they are allowed to find a quiet place during the day to think independently and recover their energy. They should not feel that you are condemning them for this. You should provide them with a quiet part of your workplace where they can work without constant distractions.
Give them more control over their workplace
Introverts are very sensitive to their working environment, including light, temperature, and noise. Try to give them more opportunities to gain control over their work environment. Give them lamps or let them sit by the window.
Provide a sense of security
Open plan offices make introverts feel like they are constantly under the scrutiny of their colleagues. They feel uncomfortable, which reflects on their work. Try to provide them with at least a part of the workplace where they can feel safe.
-Kk-