How To Be A Good Boss (Even If You’re an Introvert)

By: Emily Heaslip, Contributor

Some of the top leaders of the business world today, including Marissa Mayer, Mark Zuckerberg, Warren Buffett, and Bill Gates, identify as introverts. Introverts possess many qualities that help them become great leaders, but they also can be great bosses by taking an introverted approach to hiring, mentoring, customer service, and other key management functions. Here are some ways that introverts can use their approach to be good bosses.

What traits define introverted leaders?

There are certain traits that enable introverted bosses to bring out the best in their employees. Generally speaking, introverts possess many skills that make a successful leader, including:

• Cross-cultural communication skills.
• Resilience, adaptability, and resourcefulness.
• Conflict management skills.
• Being visionaries and strategists.
• Business acumen.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Ability to manage change.

Excelling in team empowerment and growth. Many people have both introverted and extroverted moments, but those who gravitate towards introversion tend to be known for their empathetic approach to relationships and thoughtful decision-making. Here’s how introverted bosses can translate their leadership style into great management.