In workplaces where employees interact with the public, the “obvious” choice seems to be: hire an extrovert! They’re chatty, they’re charming, and they’ve probably already made friends while going up the elevator. You might even think extroverts are destined to be the best leaders, thanks to their people skills. So the logical move would be to fill your roster with extroverts, right? Wrong. That’s like building a band with twelve lead singers—lots of volume, zero harmony.
Introverts bring their own secret superpowers to the table (and it’s not just “being quiet”). And let’s not forget ambiverts—the hybrid models who can flip between introvert and extrovert mode depending on the situation, like chameleons. If you actually want a well-balanced team, you need all three orientations to keep things steady.
We conducted a study on top-performing extroverts and introverts. What we found is that these two groups are wildly different, but in the best way possible. When you mix them together, their differences can actually be awesome.
Top 5 Strengths of Introverts
#1: Introverts always plan ahead. Put them on the spot and they may look like a deer in headlights, but give them time to “percolate” and they’ll come back with a plan so airtight you could build IKEA furniture with it. They’re cautious, conscientious, and usually armed with a Plan B (and sometimes a secret Plan C). Got a project that needs diligence and an eye for detail? Hand it to an introvert—they’ll treat it like an art form.
#2: Introverts think through their decisions. Rash impulse? Not their style. They research, weigh options, and quietly build a pros-and-cons spreadsheet in their head. Risk-taking? Only if it’s calculated—think chess master, not poker player.
#3: Introverts are “self-inspired.” Extroverts need brainstorming sessions to fire up their creativity; introverts just need a little peace and quiet. They don’t need cheerleaders—they’ve got a built-in idea generator powered by silence, coffee, and sheer willpower.
#4: Introverts love routine. Hand them their to-do list, step aside, and watch the magic happen. They don’t crave constant novelty or chaos; in fact, they’re the people who actually enjoy updating spreadsheets or tackling repetitive tasks. “Low-maintenance” should be stamped on their office door.
#5: Introverts are happy working alone. Where extroverts can feel like they’re being punished if they’re cut off from group chatter, introverts thrive in solo mode. They’re the independent operators who can make decisions, run with responsibilities, and quietly do it all.
Top 5 Strengths of Extroverts
#1: Extroverts are pros at breaking the ice. If there were an Olympic sport for small talk, extroverts would sweep the podium. They can win over a crowd and make networking look as easy as breathing. Trying to land a client or strike a deal? Send in your extrovert—they’ll have the room laughing before dessert. (Side note: don’t fall for the myth that introverts have poor social skills. Some introverts are smooth operators too—and yes, some extroverts are socially clumsy. It happens.)
#2: Extroverts speak and act with confidence. Even if they’re nervous, you’d never know it. Extroverts don’t just like to talk—they like to own the room. They’re the people who introduce themselves before the meeting even starts, and somehow walk out with three new contacts and a free lunch. Their secret weapon? Self-assurance that demands attention.
#3: Extroverts are comfortable taking risks. Starting a conversation with strangers, pitching bold ideas, or risking a little public embarrassment? Extroverts are game. They’ll happily put themselves out there, even if it means a “thanks, but no thanks.” For them, rejection is just part of the adventure.
#4: Extroverts thrive on change. Throw them on a new team, shuffle their projects, or drop them into a brand-new role, and they’ll find their footing fast. Extroverts are natural social chameleons who can handle ambiguity without breaking a sweat—and sometimes even chase it down just for fun.
#5: Extroverts give freely. Need a hand? They’ll jump in. Need advice? They’ll share it—sometimes even before you’ve asked. Extroverts are approachable, generous with their time, and love putting people at ease. (Though let’s be real: sometimes their “helpful advice” comes at you whether you were ready or not.)
Building a team of only extroverts or only introverts is like trying to make guacamole with just avocados or just limes—you need the full mix to make it work. That’s where SAGE-NM 360 comes in. Want to really understand your team—their strengths, quirks, and “why are they like this?” moments? Run them through the assessment and get the whole picture.
And once you’ve got that intel, don’t just let it collect dust. Put it to work. If you need help coaching your team to play to their strengths (and stop stepping on each other’s toes), we’ve got you covered with our group coaching package. Think of it as upgrading your team from “good” to “unstoppable.” Book a 20-minute free coaching consultation.