It’s not uncommon for accountants to be inherently introvert. In fact those who don’t see the huge array of personality types that make up the accounting workforce, might be forgiven for thinking that a penchant for numbers and an introverted personality go hand in hand.
We wouldn’t dare to make such a sweeping statement, but we will certainly accept that there are a great many, hugely talented accountants out there who gather their energy from time spent alone, as opposed to time spent centre stage amongst large groups of people.
Here’s a few typical qualities of an introvert. Take a look and see if you recognise any of these in yourself.
- You prefer quiet environments to loud ones.
- You like to take your time to make decisions.
- You have fewer friendships but the ones you have are extremely meaningful to you.
- You’d rather socialise in smaller groups than in a large gathering.
- You feel comfortable alone and find time to yourself restorative and energising.
- You’d rather write your thoughts on an issue down than say them out loud.
- A party, conference, networking event or interview will leave you feeling exhausted.
Does that sound like you? If it does, the great news is that in 2023 there is space for every type of personality and the very best hiring firms have taken the time to understand that both introverts and extroverts and indeed all the different kinds of people that fall in between, have much to offer their workforces. The trick is to create working practices that allow everyone to thrive in their own different way.
Here’s a few myths that you might have told yourself as a potential introvert or heard people say about them.
1. Introverts don’t like talking – wrong! Introverts love to talk and they have plenty to offer to useful discussions. They prefer to have deeper and more meaningful conversations with a smaller group of people but they will also contribute or indeed present to large groups, they will just need time to recover and replenish their social energy afterwards.
2. Introverts can’t be leaders – wrong! Introverts make some of the very best leaders. Transferable skills that introverts often possess that mean they have leadership potential are active listening, analytical skill, compassion and empathy. Introverts can often contribute a wise voice but they don’t need to be the loudest person in the room.
3. Introverts don’t like to socialise and have fun. Absolutely wrong. Introverts need social interactions in the same way that extroverts do, they just need to build in time for space alongside it. They will prefer social interactions in smaller groups and in quieter environments but they have plenty to contribute to social opportunities and have the potential to really become an integral part of a workforce community.
So, if you’re an ambitious introvert or showcase some introverted tendencies but sit towards the middle of the scale, how can you make sure that your skills and experience don’t go unnoticed and that you’re not being overlooked for internal promotions or at interview.
Our first tip is not to shy away from the fact that you’re an introvert. Workforces up and down the country are full of them and it’s highly likely that someone on your interview panel or in a position of influence in your firm has a very similar personality to you. Look to find those people and take the time to make meaningful connections with them.
A shift towards vulnerability in the workplace has been tangible over the last decade and opening up about your personality and how it influences and importantly enhances your skills as a leader will be a really positive step. You’ll immediately connect with those who already think like you and those around the table who are extroverts will allow you time to reflect on your answers to questions. It’s a win win.
You may be more likely to suffer with interview nerves as an introvert. Once again, this is nothing to be ashamed of and letting the interview panel know that you are nervous will mean they offer you a little more time and compassion to prepare your answers and critically, they will see first hand that the outcome really matters to you! Nerves show you care.
In summary, introverts are as able and deserving of the top jobs in practice as the most outgoing accountants out there. In many instances, they will likely do a better job in the longer term and create a lasting legacy of meaningful change as a leader.
If you’re an accountant with introverted tendencies who would benefit from some career counselling or a fresh pair of eyes when it comes to selling yourself to prospective new employers, reach out to us today. As the experts in the niche field of public practice recruitment we have seen first hand that there are opportunities a-plenty waiting for you.
