The Top 10 Ways to Teach or Train Introverts

Originally Submitted on 7/3/2003.

Introversion is a legitimate personality style. It makes up 10-30% of the population. As IQ increases, the ratio of introverts to extroverts increases, too. If you are in a field that requires a high degree of intelligence, it is likely you have exttroverts managing introverts, so this information may be well taken under consideration in training programs. Introverts learn very differently and fluorish under conditions that are opposed to those required by extroverts.

1. Introverts need to have their fear of failure and public ridicule understood and valued.

2. Introverts need to learn new skills in a safe environment with as few onlookers as possible.

3. Introverts relax and learn better when expectations are made very clear at the beginning.

4. Take time to establish rapport and a feeling of trust before training begins.

Do not expect this to take place with an exchange of personal information. Establish rapport by being well prepared, respectful, listening carefully and being on time.

5. Don't crowd the personal space of introverted trainees.

Introverts are very territorial. Don't rearrange furniture in their office or on their desk without asking permission and try not to do so at all. Don't ask them to change seats or move around the room during training.

6. Create at environment with as little outside stimulation as possible.

Watch noise level, foot traffic congestion, open windows, ringing phone, etc. Don't let outsiders walk through the room during the training. Turn off phones or mute them. Watch the modulation of your own voice. Introverts find enthusiasm unnecessary and exhausting. Although they make a polite and encouraging audience, drama wears them out and they don't put any value on it. Instead, be well prepared, stick to business and use nice manners. Don't interrupt introverts and don't permit others to interrupt in your training space.

7. Watch for signs of exhaustion if personal interaction gets too intense. Don't single people out for questions or participation.

8. Time for a break?

Make sure there is a place to "get away" from everyone. Never suggest or require that learning continue over lunch and make no references to "networking during the break or at any other time.

9. Keep group work to an absolute minimum.

If you think it is really necessary, don't expect much participation. Introverts get no value from groups and do not learn in them.

10. If you use a cell phone in our presence, we will stone you roundly with dust bunnies and banish you from our kingdom!

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