The Introverted Leader: Building on Your Quiet Strength
- 2h 17m
- Jennifer B. Kahnweiler
- Berrett-Koehler Publishers
- 2009
In our outgoing, type A business culture, introverts can feel excluded, overlooked, or misunderstood, their reticence mistaken for reluctance, arrogance, or even lack of intelligence. But Jennifer Kahnweiler shows that not only can introversion be managed, it can even be a source of strength. Ask Bill Gates and Warren Buffett, two of the leaders she cites as shy introspectives who have developed ways to thrive in a challenging environment.
It is estimated that as many as 40 per cent of executives are introverted to at least some extent. Based on conversations with over 100 of these men and women, Kahnweiler lays out a progressive four-step strategy for succeeding in an extroverted world. First, preparation: carefully devise a game plan for any potentially anxiety-producing situation. Then presence: knowing that you’re prepared, be completely focused on the present moment or activity. Next, push: with a firm foundation of preparation and presence, go beyond your comfort zone. And finally, practice, practice, practice.
After a revealing Introverted Leader Quiz to help you deepen your understanding of where focused improvement will produce maximum results, Kahnweiler shows exactly how to apply the four P’s approach in six areas that are particularly difficult for introverts, such as public speaking, heading up projects, participating in meetings, and more. The goal, she emphasizes, is not personality change—you work with who you are, not against it. In fact, she shows that introversion can actually be a plus in areas like listening skills and written communication. But as a result of reading this book, leaders and aspiring leaders who find it intimidating to be around people will learn to embrace the experience, rather than see it as something to be avoided or endured, and as a result advance their careers and contribute more fully to their organizations.
About the Author
Marshawn Evans, JD, is an entertainment attorney and founder of Marshawn Evans Unlimited, a corporate life-enrichment consulting firm focused on peak performance, diversity, workplace readiness, and dynamic leadership strategies for women. She is also President of EDGE 3M Sports & Entertainment, a national brand management and marketing agency that connects companies and causes with professional athletes and entertainers. She is a former Miss America finalist and is also one of the stars of season four of NBC's hit show The Apprentice with Donald Trump.
In this Book
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The Introverted Leader—Building on Your Quiet Strength
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Preface
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Introduction—What Is an Introverted Leader?
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Four Key Challenges
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Unlocking Success—The 4 P’s Process
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Strengths and Soft Spots
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Public Speaking
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Managing and Leading
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Heading Up Projects
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Managing Up
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The Meeting Game
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Building Relationships
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Wins from Using the 4 P’s Process
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What’s Next? Moving Toward Success
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Notes
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