Everyone knows, works or lives with “innies.” Who are they and what can they do for your team? Let’s find out!“Innies” are those quiet, reserved folks who take time to think before they comment. You will find that they adore being by themselves, thinking their own thoughts and saying little about what is going on for them. This behavior can cause average person to wonder and perhaps avoid this type. With “innies” being about 35 – 40% of population, leaving them behind can foil many an effort. Yet those who take time to get to know them understand all they can bring to team.
Assets they possess that can significantly help your team are:
* Creativity, including ability to connect seemingly disparate issues to come up with something innovative
* Great problem solving skills, combined with talent of holding various options open and in equal favor thereby avoiding “foregone conclusions” or “group think”
* Ability to discern alternatives and options not usually seen by others, as well as playing them out to logical, fruitful ends
* A strong dose of curiosity, which is often evident in their great questioning and outstanding listening skills
* Sharp perception about other people, which contributes to “smoke out” false people ,what’s not being said or what’s not functioning well on team
Now, who wouldn’t want this type of people to augment their team?
What gets difficult is that normal way world functions can be harsh for “innies.” Their initial tendency is to pull back and not let these great qualities shine. At same time, our independent research shows that “innies” desire to earn respect of others around them. Here’s how you can help them excel on your team (and in life):
1) Play to their strengths, which include doing mental work, behind scenes thought and learning new things.