Introverts and Work: Debunking 4 Common Myths
“C’mon, don’t be shy.”
If only I had a dime for every time someone tried to coax me out of my comfort zone around people I didn’t know well. Or in loud, unstructured social settings. Or when put on the spot.
From the time I was a child, I knew I was an introvert. Back then, I didn’t have the words to articulate it, so I just assumed everyone was right: I was shy. And that it was something I needed to apologize for or fix.
Before becoming a student teacher during my senior year of college, I hadn’t given much thought to how my introversion would impact my career. Now, years later, I get it.
When I flash back to those first few days at the helm of a classroom with a revolving door of students, period by period, I can still feel the excitement. Teaching lit a fire in me!
I can also feel the energy drain after being “on” for seven hours straight. As if under the spell of adrenaline, I gave it my all. All day long. Including during small-talk-filled breaks in the teachers’ lounge.
By the end of the workday, I was exhausted.
Listening to soft music on my drive home was cathartic. I needed the mental space, the alone time, to recharge my batteries. To think. To reflect. To just be. Alone.
Don’t get me wrong: I love people!
But people often do get me—and introverts like me—wrong. Introverts are frequently misunderstood and sometimes even undervalued, especially in the workplace.
That’s largely because introversion is a personal style preference for interacting with others.
It has zero relationship to intelligence, warmth, compassion, integrity, drive, or potential for success.
If you’re an introvert—or work with someone who leans toward introversion—understanding what it really means (and what it doesn’t) can help you embrace this style and leverage its many strengths.
Following are four common myths about introversion, debunked:
Myth #1: Introverts Aren’t “People” People
There’s a persistent misconception that introverts dislike people and are unsuited for people-focused careers such as teaching, counseling, sales, nursing, or leadership roles.
In actuality, it’s the amount and type of people interaction that drains or energizes introverts. And these levels vary depending on the situation and other factors influencing their energy at the time.
“Introverts are simply more likely to process situations internally—especially in new settings or unfamiliar environments. ”
Introverts value connection; in fact, most introverts crave meaningful, one-on-one relationships and deep conversations. What they typically find draining is constant social interaction, especially in conversations that lack depth or involve lots of surface-level chatter.
For that reason, some introverts gravitate toward careers that involve writing, planning, analysis, strategy, research or artistic creation, as a few examples. But they certainly don’t have to work in a vacuum!
Introverts can be exceptional listeners, empathetic collaborators and thoughtful communicators—all valuable gifts in professions that involve human interaction on a regular basis.
Myth #2: Introverts Are Shy or Meek … or Reticent
The stereotypical introvert conjures images of someone timidly hiding in the corner at a party or networking event. Stereotypes are … well, stereotypes. Often inaccurate and usually unfair.
I remember an early boss calling me “reticent.” It was not meant as a compliment!
Reticence implies an unwillingness to share information or thoughts. Reluctance. Hesitation. In the same bucket as shyness or meekness, it carried a “you-need-to-fix-this” connotation.
Well, no!
Introverts are simply more likely to process situations internally—especially in new settings or unfamiliar environments. They’re more likely to think something through before they speak, and tend to prefer reflection to reaction. That might make an introvert appear reserved or quiet in certain environments, but it doesn’t mean they lack confidence or excellent ideas.
Sometimes misunderstood as being standoffish or arrogant, introverts often take time to warm up to new people. When introverts feel comfortable (and their energy tanks are full), they can be the first to greet and warmly welcome a newcomer to the group or team.
Myth #3: Introverts Don’t Make Great Team Players
Another false assumption is that introverts don’t enjoy or perform well on teams.
False!
Introverts can absolutely thrive on teams, depending on a number of factors, including the size of the group, its makeup and interpersonal dynamics … to name a few.
“Quiet time before and after my official workday isn’t arbitrary or selfish; it’s self-care.”
They often shine in collaborative settings where they can contribute meaningfully, especially when given time to work independently before sharing their work with the group.
Many introverts prefer behind-the-scenes roles on a team over front-facing roles, but that’s not always the case. The key is for introverts to find the right balance between time working around people and working in solitude.
Visibility doesn’t equate to value or inherently translate into success. There are many ways for introverts to add incredible contributions to a team, such as through writing, reporting, designing or providing thoughtful feedback.
Myth #4: You’re Either an Introvert or an Extrovert
Perhaps this one’s the biggest of all. Most people think they’re an introvert or an extrovert. One or the other. Black and white.
The truth is: No one is an introvert—or an extrovert—100% of the time. Introversion and extroversion exist on a continuum, and most people tap into both depending on the context and their energy levels.
If you lean more towards introversion, for example, you might really enjoy large events, meetings or social gatherings. Until you don’t.
Or maybe you’re a strong speaker, comfortable in front of a large audience. While people might assume you’re an extrovert, they don’t see what goes on behind-the-scenes—the planning, structuring, rehearsing and mental preparation—that increase your comfort level and effectiveness as a presenter.
Introverts absolutely can do extroverted things; it’s just that their social batteries drain more quickly than their extroverted counterparts.
This blending of introversion and extroversion doesn’t make them inconsistent; it makes them human!
The Highlands Ability Battery (HAB) views introversion and extroversion not as labels but as personal style preferences. Your score along this continuum can help clarify how you best interact with others, manage your energy and communicate your thoughts.
Understanding your preference for introversion or extroversion can empower you to:
Choose work environments that support and balance your energy
Communicate your preferences to managers and colleagues
Design your workday around your natural rhythms
Make career choices aligned with your style
From One Introvert to Another: What It Means to Be an Introvert at Work
My career path has come full circle, from teacher to coach. The stops along the way provided valuable insights into my strengths, motivators and passions.
My strong introversion has significantly impacted my journey. For that, I am truly grateful, because it’s allowed me to recognize and use my gifts in service to others. Meeting with clients on a one-on-one or small group basis feels right. It’s where I’m most comfortable—and most effective.
I know myself well enough to know how many client sessions I can schedule per day to be an effective coach. And that quiet time before and after my official workday isn’t arbitrary or selfish; it’s self-care. If I’m at my best, I can serve my clients best. And I’m a better wife, mom, daughter and friend for it, too.
Of course, introversion is just one part of who I am. Other factors—like my natural abilities, interests, values, and goals—have also shaped my journey. Just as they will shape yours, too.
As you plan for, launch or refine your career, think about how your preference for introversion might influence your best-fit career, job or workplace environment. Take it a step further: Explore practical ways for you to honor your style and balance your energy.
Above all, stop apologizing for being an introvert! There’s nothing to defend. Introversion is a gift. Let’s celebrate it by showing up fully, honoring who we are—and (quietly) rewriting the narrative around what introversion really means.
Find your career bliss.
Empower yourself to make proactive decisions that align with your natural gifts. Imagine loving your job … enjoying what you do—and where you do it. Take the first steps toward turning your vision into reality.