Deb Liu, CEO of Ancestry.com, emphasizes the importance of introverts advocating for themselves and calls for organizations to create a more inclusive environment.
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| A growing conversation about workplace dynamics and how to ensure all employees, regardless of personality type, have opportunities to succeed. Symbolic image |
Lehi, Utah, USA - September 02, 2024:
Introverts, rejoice! Deb Liu, CEO of Ancestry.com and a self-proclaimed introvert herself, offers a roadmap to navigate the often extroverted world of work. While traditional workplaces celebrate outgoing personalities, Liu highlights strategies for introverts to thrive and gain recognition for their valuable contributions.
Liu identifies a key challenge: introverts, despite excellent work, may be overlooked for promotions due to a lack of self-promotion. She uses a compelling analogy: a brilliant product manager wasn't valued because she didn't effectively "market the light" of her accomplishments. This translates to the need for introverts to become their own advocates, communicating their achievements to ensure they receive the recognition they deserve.
However, Liu acknowledges the ideal solution isn't just individual adaptation. She calls for a broader shift in workplace culture, advocating for structures that value contributions regardless of personality type. Leaders need to create environments where everyone can be successful.
One method Liu utilizes in her own leadership team exemplifies this approach. They employ an "offline voting" system for decision-making. This allows introverts to contribute thoughtfully without pressure of immediate vocal dominance. By prioritizing reflection over impulsive speaking, everyone gets a chance to be heard.
Finally, Liu emphasizes that communication is a skill, not just a personality trait. While introverts may not find public speaking natural, it's a learnable skill crucial for success. She encourages introverts to approach communication like any other professional skill, mastering it regardless of initial discomfort.
In conclusion, Deb Liu offers a two-pronged approach for introverts in the workplace. On an individual level, self-advocacy and honing communication skills are paramount. Collectively, Liu advocates for a cultural shift within organizations to ensure everyone, introverts included, have a fair shot at advancement.