The business world is a very social sphere, where the general rule is the better you are able to network with others, the further and faster you move forward.

When you're an introvert in a world that puts great value on skills like acting and speaking quickly, it can appear to be an intimidating place. Just as often, you are misunderstood by others simply because you're not as outgoing or demonstrative as your more extraverted colleagues. That certainly does not mean introverts have lesser worth in the workplace. On the contrary, in fact.

In her book The Introvert Advantage: How to Thrive in an Extravert World, author Marti Olsen Laney explains the differences between the two personality types: "Introverts are like a rechargeable battery. They need to stop expending energy and rest in order to recharge. Extroverts are like solar panels that need the sun to recharge. Extroverts need to be out and about to refuel."

Even though they have different approaches to networking, both personality types are needed for a balanced work environment.

At work, introverts tend to be those who:

• Prefer listening and absorbing information in meetings (rather than being talkative).
• Process ideas internally and need to reflect before taking action.
• Work well with little supervision, often enjoy working alone contentedly.
• May be mistaken as being aloof or passive, when actually are thoughtful and reflective.
• Appreciate quiet space when they are trying to concentrate and dislike interruption.
• Usually need to be asked for their opinions rather than volunteering them.
• Don't mind working behind the scenes or leaving others to take the spotlight.

From this list, it is obvious to see why workplace introverts are often perceived as being unenthusiastic, unhappy or not team players when that is rarely the case.

Although they do not wear their emotions and opinions on their sleeves, people who are introverted offer strengths such as the ability to concentrate, to fully develop ideas before taking action and to show a caring and considerate attitude when working with others.

Introverts also make good networkers, although they usually take a different approach in social situations. Because they spend more time listening rather than talking, introverts tend to notice details and remember important facts about the people they meet, then later use this information in a thoughtful and deliberate way. This is not only a sign of an effective communicator but is a trait of someone who is trusted and respected by others.

Generally speaking, we applaud extraverted employees who readily produce attention-getting ideas, know how to market themselves and are seen as the "social butterflies" of the workplace. Yet, these qualities do not make them better at their jobs than introverts.

It may take managers more effort to relate to introverts at work, but once they are better understood, the more happy, productive and successful these valuable workers will be:

• Instead of assuming someone is not a team player, take time to understand how they tick. Quiet natures should not be mistaken for a lack of team spirit.
• Do not put introverts on the spot or expect them to think fast on their feet. They prefer being able to absorb information and present their opinions once they've had a chance to mull things over, so give them time and space to do so.
• Introverted employees can produce brilliant ideas, but are often uncomfortable with presenting them in front of an audience. Let them discuss their ideas with their supervisor or in a small group setting while gently encouraging them to find ways to work out their presentation anxieties.
• They may not be willing to toot their own horns (or certainly not as loudly as most extraverts), but it is just as important that introverts get the appreciation and credit they deserve for a job well done.
• Introverts are usually uncomfortable initiating a discussion with their supervisor about their grievances. Managers should watch for signs that an employee is unsatisfied and request a one-on-one conversation before the issue escalates.
• Play to the quiet strengths of introverts, who make superb listeners, researchers, and strategizers. Their ability to remain focused, to sort information and to work in a careful, methodical way make introverted workers the perfect choice to oversee important projects.

-- With reporting by Barbara Chabai

John McFerran, PhD, CMC, C. Psych., F. CHRP, is founder and president of People First HR Services Ltd. For more information, visit www.peoplefirsthr.com.

RESEARCH:

http://www.hrpa.ca/HRPA/HRResourceCentre/KnowledgeCentre/newscluster2/Helping+Introverted+Employees+Become+Better+Networkers.htm
http://content.monster.ca/8209_en-CA_p1.asp
http://behavioural-psychology.suite101.com/article.cfm/introverts_at_work