Introverts are often seen as creative thinkers, and there is a strong link between introversion and creativity. Many of the world's most successful inventors, writers, and entrepreneurs are introverts. This is because introverts enjoy expressing themselves through their work in creative ways. Most successful entrepreneurs today are introverts.
This is because introversion offers a number of benefits. Introverts tend to listen more than they talk, which is great for collecting feedback and understanding customers. Additionally, introverts are more independent and comfortable working alone, which is often necessary in the early stages of setting up a business. Bill Gates, founder of Microsoft and one of the wealthiest people in the world, is an introvert.
He used the people around him to supplement his strengths and weaknesses. Warren Buffet, founder and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, is another example of an introverted entrepreneur who has achieved great success. He is known for his wisdom, intellectual persistence, and critical thinking. Mark Zuckerberg, founder of Facebook and billionaire, was once described by COO Sheryl Sandberg as “shy and introverted” but “warm”.
Zuckerberg has been able to build charisma through his introversion. A survey conducted by Virgin Money found that 36% of entrepreneurs identified as introverts compared to only 15% who identified as extroverts. It is possible for an introvert to succeed as an entrepreneur, even though they can't expect to start and build a business alone. They must establish relationships with partners, team members, investors, and customers.
As an introverted entrepreneur, you can apply Grant's findings to your own business by encouraging employees to talk and make suggestions. The key is to play the hand you are dealt so that you can thrive as an entrepreneur in an unpredictable environment. Being an introvert doesn't mean that entrepreneurship is impossible for you; it doesn't even mean that it has to be difficult. You must put yourself in the right stimulation zone for you.
This doesn't mean randomly attending every networking event you can find; it means joining and actively participating in a couple of entrepreneurial groups in your area such as a local business incubator or The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE).
