How Introverts Can Succeed in the Job Search Without Pretending to Be Extroverts
As an introvert, do you feel like a job search is built for someone else?
You hear you should always be networking, and you need to “sell” your value. In your mind, you see a big room filled with people in conversation, exchanging business cards, and talking about how great they are.
The thought of that sends a sense of dread through your body.
But here is the thing. Introverts are hired every day. Think about your workplace. Did you encounter a fair number of introverts? They got through the hiring process and were selected. Your employers wanted them. So, why not you?
If you are an introvert, you can be successful in a job search. There are many of you out there. Let’s discuss what you can bring to your job search that's a plus, and I'll offer some practical, introvert-friendly job search tips for you to focus on as part of your strategy.
What is an Introvert?
We throw around the word “introvert,” but many people do not know what it truly means. The dictionary definition is: The psychologist Carl Jung first introduced the idea of introversion and extroversion in the early 19th century. His interpretation was about the person’s energy being either the inner world or the outer world. Here is how Merriam-Webster defines introverts:
“A typically reserved or quiet person who tends to be introspective and enjoys spending time alone.”
There is a misperception that introversion equals shyness. While some introverts can be shy, shyness is about avoiding people or things. Introversion is different. It's more about where the person gets energy, from themselves and their thoughts, or from other people. Introverts gain energy through reflection and expend energy through interactions with others in social situations.
Introverts are not generally antisocial. They have friends and can do very well in one-on-one conversations or even small groups. Big groups, though, can often feel overwhelming.
Also, introverts do not lack confidence. They are often very confident because they give more time to introspection and reflection, so they know well who they are and what they believe in.
How Many Are Introverts?
It is hard to get any specific numbers around introversion in the population. Some studies have shown that introversion in the population ranges between 25% and 50%. It's hard to get an exact number because introversion exists on a spectrum. You can tend to be introverted in some situations and extroverted in others. Because of this, many people who identify as introverts or extroverts likely fall somewhere in between. Ambiverts can be comfortable in social situations but also crave quiet time for introspection.
The critical thing to remember is that introverts or ambiverts who tend toward introversion are everywhere. I have worked in organizations where the CEO was an introvert. Their leadership style was different than those who were extroverted, but it made the person no less effective.
The important thing to focus on is what strengths you bring to your job search because of your introversion…and there are many.
The Hidden Advantages of Introverts in a Job Search
Introverts have many natural strengths that are great in a job search. Think about some of the activities you can do more easily and better than others.
Listening and Preparation: Introverts tend to be deep listeners and reflective thinkers. This is great for thinking about what employers want and need, your value in the market, and even considering why an interviewer is asking a particular question.
Depth over Breadth: Introverts focus on quality over quantity. They may not have as many people in their network, but they have cultivated strong relationships with the ones they do have.
Research and Strategy: Because introverts are comfortable working solo, they can tackle job search activities like researching organizations, updating and tailoring resumes, and prepping for interviews with little hesitation.
Written Communication: Often, introverts’ preferred method of communication is through the written word. That means they may do better with the writing side of a job search—writing their resume, LinkedIn profiles, thank-you emails, or even presentation decks.
Introvert-Friendly Job Search Strategies
If you are an introvert (or tend toward introversion as an ambivert), there are many strategies you can lean into that play into your strengths.
Strategic Networking (But On Your Terms)
Avoid large events. That is not where you shine. Instead, focus on one-on-one chats, either in person or online. You are a great listener. The other person, especially those who are extroverted, will appreciate talking about their favorite subject—themselves.
Informational interviews are where you'll find the gold. Speak to those in the roles you want. You can get great intelligence about how to manage your job search by asking thoughtful questions to those where you want to go.
Online Personal Branding
Your online presence on LinkedIn (or other social channels) can showcase your unique story and value. Your introspection can help with your clarity and how to tell it powerfully.
Since social media is still about words, share value through written content: posts, articles, or comments.
You can engage on your own terms. You don't need to comment on every post, but only on those where you can add value. Reach out to people that you want to get to know better and exchange DMs. There is no right or wrong way to engage. Choose the way that works for you.
Prepare Like a Pro
Prepare your STAR stories (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for your interviews. Start practicing how you will respond to questions using this format for particular questions.
You know that the interaction of an interview will likely drain you. Think ahead about how you will recover your energy after your interview is over.
Lean Into Research
Before you embark on your job search, identify what you need in a role, boss, or organization to thrive. Identify these workplaces through your research.
The more you know, the better you will be as a candidate. Since you're okay with alone time, use it to research prospective employers, potential networking contacts, or industry challenges.
Manage Your Energy
You know that you can become drained in certain situations. Try to schedule interviews and networking in a way that will allow you alone time to recharge.
Reflection and self-care will be important in your job search. Build routines that will allow you the time for each. This could be as simple as walking our dog or journaling.
Mindset Shifts for Introverts
There's no reason you, as an introvert, can’t excel in a job search. You may have to do it differently from your extrovert friends and colleagues. Remember, we all bring certain strengths and weaknesses to everything we do. Job search is no different. The important thing is not to try to twist yourself into something you're not. It's about finding what fits you.
I am an ambivert that leans toward introversion. I can handle large social events, but I need downtime afterward to recharge. I remember once getting advice about my job search from an extrovert. They advised me to go to this event and that event. It sounded like hell to me.
Then I realized their advice was coming from their extroverted perspective. They thought those events would be fun and fruitful. They would get their energy by doing this. Once this dawned on me, I understood that their advice was well-meaning, but it wouldn't work for me. Instead, I needed to do it my way.
I knew networking was important, but I preferred more 1:1 conversations. I concentrated on setting those up separately. I don't avoid all large networking groups, but instead try to see who might attend and focus on the one or two people I truly want to meet. After I accomplished that, I was free to leave if I wanted, even if the event wasn’t over.
I did what would work for me. I made no apologies, but I also didn’t make any excuses either.
Introverts should conduct their job search on their own terms. You will feel better about the process and will have more success.
You don’t have to become an extrovert to succeed in your job search. Introverts can thrive by leaning into what they do best—deep research, thoughtful 1:1 conversations, and active listening. This guide shares practical, introvert-friendly strategies to get hired authentically.
Shelley Piedmont is a Career Coach who focuses on understanding your unique skills, interests, and aspirations and provides personalized coaching to guide you toward roles where you can truly thrive. Whether you are stuck as to what your next career move should be or need help with resumes, LinkedIn profiles, or interview preparation, Shelley is here to help you. Please set up an exploratory call to find out how she can help you reach your career goals.