Two years ago, Jane Umurerwa applied for a job in marketing and sales and go it. She knew it would be a challenge, not because she couldn’t do the work, but because as an introvert, she felt it would force her out of her shell to interact with people, something she says makes her uncomfortable. However, during this time, she has slowly learned how to get out of her comfort zone. In the article, ‘4 Ways Introverts Can Truly Thrive in the Workplace’, it says, “The term introvert is often used inaccurately. Introversion does not necessarily equate to shy, though some introverts are shy — as are some extroverts. Instead, in author Susan Cain’s book, ‘QUIET: The Power of Introverts in a World That Won’t Stop Talking’, she defines introverts as “men of contemplation,” who may enjoy the company of others, but are also comfortable with solitude. They are sensitive, contemplative, modest and calm, and spend a lot of time thinking and reflecting. They can enjoy social occasions, but crave restorative time afterwards. They do their best work alone in quiet places since they are easily overstimulated by noise, lights and action. Like Umurerwa, most introverts prefer working in a quiet peaceful environment, with minimal distraction from people. Some introverts would rather send an email explaining an idea to their bosses than participate in a brainstorming meeting. They prefer game development, programming, design and writing since they require periods of extreme focus and concentration. One study found that more extroverted people — those who were more confident, sociable or assertive — had a 25 per cent higher chance of being in a high-earning job. Fields like consulting and investment banking, for example, are fields in which extroverts may thrive. Many introverts work, and rise, in all kinds of environments. Like extroverts, introverts have a natural ability to build meaningful connections and communicate gracefully. Introverts can succeed in extroverted careers as below; According to Charles Shyaka, the general manager 250 Startups Incubator Kigali, as an introvert, learn to communicate always where it is necessary because if you don’t, you may fail to let out amazing ideas that can help the company grow. “For instance, think of a scenario where you’re in a meeting that each of you was encouraged to attend to exchange ideas on how to improve marketing tactics, all you have to do is research extensively and be ready to give the best ideas, that way, you will impress your manager,” he says. Shyaka notes that speaking out loud to oneself can assist in expressing one’s thoughts to many people. He says that introverts should aim at creating one-on-one work-related connections and seek means to better themselves. This will allow them to learn to speak freely about their work tasks and even learn a lot about how extroverts express themselves. Once they have created such alliances, communication will be much easier and they will even feel comfortable at work. According to the Muse, display your skills with pride. The first part of this is identifying exactly what your skills are. If you feel the most motivated and productive when you’re working by yourself, recognise and be proud of your independence, autonomy, self-discipline, and thoroughness. “A leader isn’t defined by how much he speaks. Be your own person and your own leader. Don’t downplay your strengths just because you think they’re not as important as the other personality type, and don’t force yourself to work in the cafe area of the office where your co-workers are constantly tossing ideas around if your preference is to sit at your desk with your headphones on. You’re a skilled watcher, observer, reader of situations; it would be a deep disservice to not embrace these qualities. Maybe you’re actually more productive as a result of your solo-work tendencies.” Shyaka adds that if you’re an introvert, look at the extroverted portions of your job as a need to achieve. That way, the extroverted components of your job become tasks that you can handle, which can refashion your introverted brain. He calls upon introverts to understand what they need to be comfortable and happy at work. They can write it down so that in case of any new job, they openly let their boss know about them so that they can work with each other comfortably. “There is no shame in being an introvert, you shouldn’t be afraid to ask for what you need,” Shyaka says.
