Most successful entrepreneurs today are introverts, and for good reason. Introverts tend to listen more than they talk, which is great for collecting feedback and understanding customers. However, there are also a number of extroverted entrepreneurs who are outwardly confident, eye-catching, and articulate. They may find it easier to convince people to buy their business and are networking experts.
The Virgin Money research surveyed 1000 small business owners and real-life entrepreneurs across the UK and found that 36% of them described themselves as introverts, compared to only 15% who said they were all-out extroverts. The main character traits among the surveyed entrepreneurs were consideration (62%), flexibility (61%), and consideration (57%), qualities typically associated with more introverted personality types. Both introverts and extroverts can be business owners, but they have different approaches with their own strengths and weaknesses. Extroverts tend to focus on expressing and executing their own ideas, while introverts focus on the thoughts and actions of others.
As an entrepreneur, introverts are naturally used to analyzing each other's ideas, offering thoughtful feedback, and organizing what others bring to the table. Persuasion and the ability to change mindsets is key in marketing for an entrepreneur, and extroverts tend to have an advantage in their ability to persuade others. To address their weaknesses, introverted entrepreneurs must start a business that focuses on creative thinking and independence, and one that does not require them to be the public face of the company. They should also encourage employees to talk and make suggestions.
Not all entrepreneurs have personalities that exude optimism, but they all possess it deep down, largely because of this ability for detached and tenacious experimentation. Crowded rooms and small talk may not be comfortable for introverts, but if you want to introduce yourself and your business, you'll find yourself in the middle of both.
