The swiftly changing rules about work attendance - specifically, the greater openness to remote work - don't equally favor every employee. In reality, this increasing uptake of remote work poses unique challenges to extroverts and introverts.
Those with extroverted tendencies gain energy from interacting with people. Extroverts find their energy drained if they spend too much time alone.
Those with introverted tendencies, on the other hand, recharge by spending time alone. If you are more of an introvert, you may feel like you’re making an effort when spending too much time in large gatherings, expending energy that might be better used elsewhere.
Whether you identify as an extrovert or an introvert, you'll probably feel a little uncertain about your place in this changing career landscape. Here are a few tips for you to thrive in your career, depending on your personality type:
- Take care of your mental health. To function well both in your personal life and career, looking after your mental health should be your top priority. Be kind to yourself; acknowledge that you are going through a crisis in the form of this pandemic.
Self-care may look different between extroverts or introverts. If you are an extrovert, you may prefer joining online social events, like movie and game nights, or yoga and other exercise sessions. You may also want to volunteer for causes requiring regular meetings.
For introverts, self-care might mean curling up with a book, taking a walk, listening to music, or other solo activities. Even introverts can get cabin fever from the long lockdown, though – if you feel like reaching out to someone, join an online community where you can manage your social interaction at a level you are comfortable with. - Work according to your personality type. Work-from-home setups can be challenging to both personality types, even to introverts who reportedly cope better in social isolation.
Video conferencing meetings, for example, may be a different experience for both personality types. Nothing beats a face-to-face meeting if you are an extrovert, but you will do well to maximize Zoom meetings by fully engaging with your co-workers. Meanwhile, introverts may feel overwhelmed and drained sometimes by Zoom’s multi-sensory aspect. You may want to manage social interaction – for example, turning on video only when speaking or being spoken directly to. - Find a job that matches your type. If you are in between jobs, find one best for your type. If you are an extrovert, get a job that requires substantial social interaction, like account management and client management. If you are an introvert, find a job that lets you work mostly alone, and with just occasional video conferencing meetings. Working at a job suitable for your type will not only be good for your career, but also for your mental health amid the pandemic.
Nobody understands your needs quite like Entrego, a technology-driven business solutions provider for the fulfillment and logistics needs of enterprises. The company is effectively adopting amid the pandemic, and is enabling trade and commerce in this “new normal.” We’ve adapted as necessary – and we have high hopes you will, too!
