Are you an introvert or an extrovert? Both personality types can become influencers in the workplace if they know how to harness their plus points.
Building influence in the workplace starts with understanding your own personality traits and those of your colleagues so that you can communicate effectively.
Are you an introvert or an extrovert or somewhere in-between?
Introverts: are keen observers and selective speakers. Because introverts sit back and listen, they often possess well-considered and strategic ideas. For introverts, the biggest barrier to being influential in the workplace is effective communication. By building confidence in their ability to communicate, introverts can become great influencers.
Extroverts: It can be easier for extroverts to be influential in the workplace as they have a bigger presence. Because they’re often outgoing, socially confident and like to talk they can get their message across. Where the influence of extroverts tends to waver is when ideas are presented without thorough consideration. To be more influential, extroverts must learn to be great listeners as well as great presenters.
How to build influence
To overcome your own barriers when it comes to influencing others, it’s essential to recognise and understand your behaviours, says Steve Bennetts, a business psychologist at Chandler Macleod Group. By understanding your behaviour and how it impacts others, you increase your emotional intelligence, which can really benefit your career.
By understanding your behaviour and how it impacts others, you increase your emotional intelligence, which can really benefit your career.
Introverts:
Extroverts:
An occupational psychologist can help both introverts and extroverts work through their behaviours and anxieties. Extroverts are less likely to engage with psychologists, but could benefit hugely from doing so and enrich their lives at the same time, Bennetts says.
Large organisations may have a psychologist on staff or provide access to one through wellness programmes. Take advantage of that opportunity.