Understanding Introversion and Extroversion

much more complex than any brief description can convey. But once you consider the differences in how the brain functions, the behavioral differences between introverts and extroverts are exactly what you'd predict. Fortunately, both approaches are just fine; what's important is that coworkers respect each other and draw from everyone's strengths to create a better outcome for all concerned.

Remember, though, that it's not always obvious from someone's behavior whether that person is an introvert or an extrovert. Some introverts are talkative; some extroverts are reserved. Just as there are differences in behavior between extroverts and introverts, there are differences between any two introverts and any two extroverts. We are multi-dimensional beings, and our introversion or extroversion is just one small aspect of who we are.

If the introvert/extrovert dynamic has posed challenges for your team, I suggest you get together and discuss these differences. Help each other understand what your introversion or extroversion is like for you. Discuss the strengths you bring to the team by virtue of your introversion or extroversion. Ask each other questions to deepen your understanding. Describe what you need from each other in order to do your best work. I guarantee you'll learn some things in the process. I've seen teams make striking improvements in the way they work together through discussions of this kind.

In a future StickyMinds.com article, I'll elaborate on the positive and negative perceptions introverts and extroverts have of each other, and I'll offer additional ideas on how they can work together effectively.