An introvert’s guide to be successful in business

“Turns out my normal life is called “quarantine”. The only difference is I’m out of toilet paper now.”

I don’t know about you, but every time I’m at a party I find myself retreating to a quiet corner, making friends with the resident animals, grabbing some of the chips and then quietly sneaking out of the door. And in the few times that I get cornered to chat with a new person it feels so awkward… like I’m trying way too hard. Don’t get me wrong because I love to party… at home, alone. So, you can imagine my elation with the stay-at-home orders at this time of the pandemic.

Back when I was a kid in school we were referred as being shy, today we’re seen more as being introverted, thanks to psychologist Carl Jung. Introverted people are self-aware and reflective — more comfortable in focusing on inner thoughts and ideas. At the same time, we embody the old adage “you have two ears and one mouth for a reason”.

If you are one, it may be comforting to know that one-third of the people in the US are introverts. However, there is still a public perception about us having little chance to succeed. This could not be further from the truth. As an example, let’s take a look at a few of our well-known business leaders today who are considered introverted.

• Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft