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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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The Introverted Leader summary
Building on your Quiet Strength
19 mins
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The book 'The Introverted Leader' by Jennifer Kahnweiler is a guide for introverts who aspire to be leaders. It provides practical techniques for effective communication, negotiation, and networking that align with introverted tendencies.
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The Introverted Leader
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There are more introverts than you think – even among highly influential people.
Whether it’s in a chatty classroom or at a party, it often seems that extroverts greatly outnumber introverts. But appearances can deceive: there are actually quiet people in every walk of life – and they aren’t even a minority.
In fact, introversion and extraversion are basic temperaments that are evenly distributed throughout the population.
The terms extrovert and introvert were first introduced by the psychologist C.G. Jung to distinguish between two basic personality types:
Introverts tend to direct their attention inward, focusing on their own thoughts, whereas extroverts are active, social and focus on their external environment. The two types also differ in how they recharge their mental batteries: extroverts are energized by social interaction, while introverts recover energy through quiet, solitary contemplation. Finally, their communication styles are different: extroverts are outspoken and decisive, whereas introverts are reserved, prefer listening to talking and ponder all their options before taking action.
So how many introverts are out there? Scientists interviewed different groups of people about introverted personality traits such as needing a lot of quiet time or preferring listening to talking.
The result?
About 47-55 % of the US population are introverts.
But what about business and politics – surely there is only place for extroverts there?
Indeed, our business culture does seem to favor extroverts by emphasizing the importance of socializing, decisiveness and gregariousness over introvert traits like reflectiveness or conscientousness. Yet one study shows that no less than 40% of all executives describe themselves as introverts. The most famous of them all was probably President Abraham Lincoln, known for his tendency to frequently withdraw inside himself: he would often be found alone in his library reading law books instead of socializing.
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What is The Introverted Leader about?
Kahnweiler explores the specific challenges introverts face in an extroverted business world. She then sets out to show how introverted executives can push their limits, employ their characteristic strengths and still become great leaders.
The Introverted Leader Review
The Introverted Leader (2011) is a valuable resource for anyone looking to understand and harness the power of introverted leadership. Here are three reasons why this book stands out:
- With its practical strategies and tools, it provides introverted leaders with actionable advice on how to navigate the challenges of leading in an extroverted world.
- By sharing real-life examples and success stories, it offers valuable insights into the unique strengths and contributions that introverted leaders can bring to the table.
- The book's emphasis on self-reflection and personal growth makes it an engaging and empowering read, helping introverted individuals embrace their leadership potential.
Best quote from The Introverted Leader
There is a difference between introversion and shyness. Shyness is driven by fear and social anxiety
—Jennifer Kahnweiler
Who should read The Introverted Leader?
- Anyone who is introverted and interested in leadership
- Anyone who is extroverted and wants to better understand their introverted colleagues
- Anyone coaching or mentoring prospective leaders
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The Introverted Leader FAQs
What is the main message of The Introverted Leader?
The main message of The Introverted Leader is that introverts can be effective leaders by leveraging their unique strengths.
How long does it take to read The Introverted Leader?
The reading time for The Introverted Leader varies, but it typically takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in 15 minutes.
Is The Introverted Leader a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Introverted Leader is a valuable read for anyone seeking leadership insights. It provides practical strategies and inspiration for introverted leaders.
Who is the author of The Introverted Leader?
The author of The Introverted Leader is Jennifer Kahnweiler.
What to read after The Introverted Leader?
If you're wondering what to read next after The Introverted Leader, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- The Introvert’s Complete Career Guide by Jane Finkle
- The Genius of Opposites by Jennifer B. Kahnweiler
- Get to the Point! by Joel Schwartzberg
- Quiet by Susan Cain
- The Introvert's Way by Sophia Dembling
- The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson
- The Introvert’s Edge to Networking by Matthew Pollard
- Quiet Power by Susan Cain
- Adaptability by Max McKeown
- Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek