Five Best Practices for Managing Introverts at Your Dealership

Introverts are said to make up 25 to 40 percent of the total population. However, the numbers could be even greater. So, there is a high chance that you will work with individuals who could be categorized as introverts. You may also be one yourself.

Depending on their personalities, each of your employees has various needs regarding management and support. Managing these personalities can be complex, but understanding the traits commonly associated with introversion can help you start to understand how you can best assist your staff.

Many times, introverts may be seen —many times, incorrectly—as shy, uncomfortable with public speaking, or socially distant. Learning about their personality traits can help you discard the myths and identify their strengths.

According to WebMD, introverts can be known to: 

• Need quiet to concentrate
• Take time to make decisions
• Need to recharge after being in a crowd
• Be reflective
• Are comfortable working alone

Anyone, regardless of personality, can possess these traits, as many of us are on a spectrum between introversion and extroversion. However, those that are closer to the introversion category may be more likely to have these characteristics.

If you are wondering how to help this group excel, take a look at our best practices for managing introverts at your dealership: 

Understand How They Work 

Both introverts and extroverts can be conscientious about how they accomplish tasks. However, introverts may approach this differently. Individuals of this personality type are known to be reflective and highly detailed. This means that an introvert is more likely to take a bit longer to finish work. They may prefer to work on one task at a time and dislike constant distractions, noise, and large groups. These insights can help you to ensure introverts are in an environment that is conducive to productivity. This situation may cause you to allow them to have access to the conference room to work alone or make it possible for them to have deep work time where you and other colleagues avoid disturbing them. 

Give Them The Information They Need to Plan Out Their Day or Week 

Introverts are known to be analytical, rational, and have a preference for planning. So, popping up with an unplanned 2:00 pm meeting or brainstorming session can through them off. It helps to work with introverts at the start of the week to allow them to organize their time so they can feel comfortable with their workflow. If meetings could arise, inform introverts block off specific times during the week for a potential meeting or collaboration session. They will appreciate the heads-up and will likely follow-up with you beforehand to prepare for the event. 

Be As Clear as Possible 

Again, introverts are known to want to avoid distractions while they work, while also taking the time to verify details before completing a task. As a result, it is crucial that you give them all the information they could need upfront. Be clear about your expectations and any goals. Also, don’t hesitate to over-communicate, as it will help them feel comfortable moving forward with their projects or tasks.

Having to search multiple places for information, or reach out for instructions after each task can damage their productivity. So, offer all the information they need ahead of time, and make it easy for them to find the documents necessary to complete their tasks. 

Be Sure to Check-In and Allow Time for Socialization 

This entry is especially for those who are still managing employees remotely. There is a misconception that introverts are not as prone to socialization as their extrovert counterparts. Because of this, some managers may not promote opportunities for person-to-person activities. This could not be further from the truth. While introverts may not be fans of large groups, they do enjoy interacting with others, especially if the engagement is about a specific topic. So, don’t hesitate to put on a virtual lunch and learn or another virtual or in-person bonding or training activity. 

Make it Easier for Introverts to Contribute To the Conversation

Research has shown that at a meeting of six people, two people typically do 60 percent of the talking. You want to be sure you hear everyone’s ideas, and one great way to do that is to be sure introverts don’t fall through the cracks. Before any meeting, share the agenda and ask individuals to bring any relevant information with them. You may even want to tell the introverts on your team that you want them to speak about a particular part of the agenda. This action will give them a chance to prepare ahead of time and will empower them to contribute their ideas. 

Introverts Are An Asset to Your Dealership 

Many times, because of our country’s culture, we tend to recognize the traits of extroverts in the workplace. Nevertheless, introverts can bring a quiet and methodical strategic voice to your company. Both personality types have their strengths and weaknesses, but the goal is to recognize where each shines and give them the platforms to do so. Doing so can help your dealership staff further develop and move the company forward.

Did you enjoy this article from Chanell Turner? Read other articles from her here.

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