Understanding Different Personalities: The Seven Myths Of Introversion and Extroversion

The People Leaders Podcast

In this very special episode — our 100th episode — we’re in myth-busting mode and are taking a look at the common misconceptions of introverted and extroverted personality types. It’s no secret that we’re lovers of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and using it to understand your own and your team’s personality types. There are certain things that we see time and time again when it comes to understanding — or a lack thereof — of the different personality types out there. It’s your role as a people leader to find the uniqueness in each person. When you really look at the underlying motivation for behaviours, it makes life so much simpler. Knowledge is definitely power. So we’re here to help uncover the seven myths of introversion and extroversion.

Episode highlights:

• How we use our personal relationships to teach our Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) workshops.
• Myth #1 - Extroverts are happier. They are more likely to express their thoughts and feelings. Introverts tend to have a rich internal life so analyse more and keep to themselves.
• Myth #2 - Introverts don’t like to socialise. Perhaps one of the biggest misconceptions. Introverts do like to socialise, they just do it in a different way, on their own terms.
• Myth #3 - Extroverts are more confident. Extroverts come across as more confident because of their body language and openness. On the flip side, introverts appear calm, but it’s not always the case.
• Myth #4 - Extroverts are superficial. Extroverts love breadth of relationships and events, while introverts love the depth.
• Myth #5 - Introverts are less emotional. They tend to bottle up their emotions more, so it’s important to check in with introverted people rather than assuming they are okay.
• Myth #6 - Extroverts love to network. Because extroverts are good at making small talk, it’s assumed they are great networkers. Really, introverts can be just as good because they can delve deeper and foster stronger relationships.
• Myth #7 - Introverts don’t contribute as much. Giving an introvert the opportunity to speak up in meetings is key. They might contribute in other ways, such as listening and being fully present.
• “The MBTI is a great tool to use to broaden your level of staff awareness and understand the impact you might be having on other people. If you’re going to work on anything, understanding yourself and your impact will bring you a rich life.”

Useful Links:
Explore our brand new Above-the-Line Leaders' Toolkit - https://peopleleaders.com.au/above-the-line-thinking/
Join our next Leadership Essentials Program - https://peopleleaders.com.au/leadership-essentials-program/
Get in touch with us at [e-mail]
People Leaders Website - https://peopleleade

Get in touch with us at [e-mail]
People Leaders Website - https://peopleleaders.com.au/
People Leaders on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/people-leaders-pty-ltd/
Connect with Jan Terkelsen on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/janterkelsen/
Connect with Michelle Terkelsen on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-terkelsen-creating-high-performing-teams-a992744/
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