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Adrian Malpass

Business Developer (Emotionally Intelligent), The Experience Group

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Do introverts make better leaders?

Part of what I do is involved in developing emotionally intelligent businesses, leaders and teams.

Having recently seen Susan Cain's video on TED.com on 'The Power of Introverts' and listened to her in a recent radio interview here in the UK, I am increasingly finding my mind occupied by wondering about any link between being an introvert and being a successful leader.

My experience tells me that introverts quite possibly, or even probably, make better leaders than 'extroverts'.

What are your thoughts?

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Topics: Emotional Intelligence Extrovert business business development business idea collaborative learning introvert leadership team work
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    Sasa Marinic

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    Apr 7 2012: I believe that a true leader should not be either or actually should be both at the same time. there are character virtues of a leader in introvert (calm, steady, no sudden moves) and extrovert (candid, daring, progressive) personality.True leader finds the balance (that works for him) and use it as situation demands.

    Yet in the world of democracy, lobbying; when a leader is to be chosen (even by shareholders) the charms and wits of a extrovert person, will prevail more often. The social appeal of a presidential candidate is just as important as hem / her being calm. this is very evident during political campaigning.

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