More than pipes and wires

In an interview published in Scientific American in 2012, author Susan Cain (“Quiet The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking”) noted that one third to one half of the population are introverts. You may not recognize them as introverts because early on they learned to be pretend-extroverts.

Some professions, like Procurement, seem to favor those who are extroverts and often recognize them in greater measure than their more introverted teammates.  Sometimes the strengths and advantages of the introvert are not understood or even overlooked:

Returning from a project meeting we attended together, my more gregarious coworker noted “You didn’t say much in the meeting.” “Steve, I speak when I have something constructive to say.” “No, no, Neil. You won’t get invited to meetings if you’re that way.”

Perhaps Procurement Professionals are expected to be extroverts so as to succeed with (or fend off) salespeople and be their perfect foil. By their nature, sales reps need to be outgoing and engaging. As in contracts - wherein the last writing speaks loudest - so perhaps its true for procurement professionals. Command that scene by strength of personality. Be the self-promoting speaker. The “go-getter.”

But what about careful listening, quiet observation, thoughtful conversation and focus? All the hallmarks of an introvert.

In that Scientific American interview, Cain cited the work of two noted psychologists who suggested that introverts can be exceptional leaders and creative innovators. “This is probably because introverts are comfortable spending time alone, and solitude is a crucial (and underrated) ingredient for creativity.”

But only if we recognize, and value, the gifts of the introvert.  By the way, I’m an “INFJ”. What’s your Myers-Briggs personality type?