One of the more challenging dynamics is when a more extroverted leader is trying to lead more introverted followers or vice versa.
With an extroverted personality getting energy from being with people, and an introverted personality gaining their energy by being alone; it can be a challenge just understanding each other. However, if the leader and his/her followers happen to exist at the extreme ends of the introvert/extrovert continuum, it can be downright frustrating.
This poster seeks to graphically depict the dynamics of the extrovert/introvert dance.
As a leader extroverts on his/her more introverted followers s/he will only cause them to step back from the leader – pushing them further inside of themselves. If a leader wants to have his/her followers extrovert more, s/he must introvert.
The opposite is also true. If an introverted leader wants the respect of his/her more extroverted followers, s/he will have to become more comfortable extroverting so as not to get run over by the followers.
Of course nothing can replace a healthy respect on both sides regarding the respective strengths and weaknesses of each personality type. Both extroverts and introverts must take it upon himself/herself to manage their own strengths and weaknesses and not use their strengths unfairly to out introvert or out extrovert the other to bring him/her into submission.
Categories: Listening, Sociability
Magic Club Leadership Resources 