In this day and age of new titles, new references and personal assignments, we proudly include, “the ambivert”. Even better, “the ambivert leader”!
What is an ambivert? Is it an introvert? Extrovert? “Othervert?” A true ambivert is recognized as being somewhere in the middle of an extrovert and introvert.
Clearly defined extroverts are outgoing, over-expressive people who have enough endurance to light a thousand candles from their very own energy. Sounds magical, no? Ok, so maybe extroverts still need a match to light a candle; but their energy would make you believe otherwise. Their exuberant intuition is ignited by gaining the energy of others.
Introverts invite a different scenario. Introverts have an unsuspecting aura or persona of calm. They are often easy to recognize by the quieter responses, slower replies and varied moodiness of an introvert’s nature. Introverts gain their energy by spending time alone without distractions and static.
Interestingly, as a people, we all of a sudden realize that many of us have both of these types of traits within us. How wonderful to be able to call upon such different and hardy personality strengths.
How an Ambivert Leads by Instinct
There are three dimensions to ambivert leadership. They are extroversion, introversion, and a combination of the two.
Extroverts prefer to be right in the middle of things. Introverts prefer to step back, often preferring to either work independently or with a smaller team. An ambivert is very capable of balancing the requirements of both of these energy archetypes. That said, ambiverts are also in tune with the type of energy restoration process needed. The type of recharging depends on the circumstances and energy expended. This key awareness is crucial for the ambivert leader.
Ambiverts apply personal awareness toward appropriate skill usage. For example, the extroverted leader takes charge on the job. It is important to observe that this job requires a lighter hand. Strengthening an introverted position of a less intense leadership role would be the skill lesson here.
Ambivert personalities often weigh a little more on either side of the introvert/extrovert scale. Recognizing how honing the less developed side with the more developed side’s ingredients further balances harmony, understanding of others and of self.