The Empathetic Extrovert: How to Succeed as a Leader
As an extroverted leader, I know firsthand the challenges that come with communicating with introverted team members. But through my experience and coaching others, I've learned that the key to success isn't just about getting results, it's also about building strong relationships and fostering a positive work culture. Let me share with you how I help other extroverted leaders overcome their communication challenges and build empathy with their teams.
As an extroverted leader, I thrived on being assertive, confident, and goal-oriented. I was able to make quick decisions and motivate my team to achieve their objectives. However, I found it challenging to understand my introverted team members and connect with them on a deeper level. I struggled to listen to their perspectives and show empathy when they needed it.
My wake-up call came when I received feedback from my team during a communication exercise. They felt that I wasn't listening to their ideas and that I wasn't taking their feelings into account. I realized that I was too focused on results and not enough on building relationships with my team members.
So, I began a journey of self-discovery and exploration, diving into books and articles on empathy, communication, and emotional intelligence. I practiced active listening, asked open-ended questions, and acknowledged my team members' feelings. I made an effort to connect with them personally and understand their work style preferences.
Through my journey, I learned that building empathy takes time and practice, but it's a critical component of successful leadership. Empathy helps create a culture of trust, respect, and belonging, leading to higher engagement, creativity, and productivity. As a coach, I help other extroverted leaders understand the benefits of empathy and learn practical strategies for implementing it in their communication with their team members.
If you're an extroverted leader struggling to connect with your introverted team members, I encourage you to take the first step and start exploring the power of empathy. Whether it's through reading, coaching, or practicing empathy in small ways every day, you can unlock the full potential of your team and become a more effective leader. Remember, building empathy is a journey, and I'm here to help you every step of the way.