The Power of Silence....

In the spirit of offering my clients more, and in my own self-interest, I have been doing a lot of reading about introverts. It seems this lot has been drastically misunderstood and at times, almost chastised for their "need for space." My latest read, Quiet, The Power of Introverts in a World that Can't Stop Talking by Susan Cain offers insight into these softer souls amongst us.

In my work with clients at all levels, ages, genders and cultural demographics, I understand better than many that people from the Western world praises big and bold personalities; those folks who can jump and tell a witty story or craft an emotional tale all for the enjoyment of the audience. "These" folks get noticed in the boardroom, their name seems to rise to the top of the heap for promotions and "he" or "she" seems to be the one who everyone wants to be associated with. But for the strong silent types, their quiet presence in the boardroom is perceived as lacking "something."

But are "they" lacking or are the bold and brass lacking "something?"

Based on numerous studies Cain shares in her book, the results came out with two tops hits;

#1 Introverts are inclined to listen and implement idea's better

#2 (Because) they aren't concerned about dominating social situations

In a world truly obsessed with talking, we often forget that listening is the other very vital half of communicating. 

My advice is; next time you want to be persuasive, stop talking.

Take care,
Shoana Prasad