Comments on: Social Networking: Make Room for the Introverts

By: Cynthia

Cynthia — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 14:13:48 +0000

Thanks for the great comments! Plus extra thanks to Jennifer for her informative and thought-provoking post. Erik–it’s interesting that “quiet” is so often perceived these days as “un-engaged” rather than “thoughtful.” A kind of stereotyping that hasn’t really been recognized yet, I think. Fran–I hadn’t thought about the potential for distributing “energy load” via social networking, but it certainly does sound like a useful tactic!

By: Erik Bartz

Erik Bartz — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 18:38:03 +0000

I’ve been turned down for positions I was well suited for based on the hiring manager’s perception of introverts. I might be an introvert, but that doesn’t mean I can’t “handle” and sales team full of ‘alpha-male’ types.

I think social networking is great for introverts. It allows me time to consider my responses and showcase my talents and skills, without getting perceived as quiet and un-engaged.

By: fran melmed

fran melmed — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 17:13:05 +0000

i’m also an introvert and get the same reaction as you, jennifer. i think it’s because i can turn on the energy full-force. it allows people to assume that it’s ongoing, when it’s really only for a (limited) time.

i’ve been thinking of this same concept and wondering whether social networking is actually a way for introverts to equalize things a bit since it’s not face-to-face and it allows for exchanges on your personal timeframe.

By: Jennifer McClure

Jennifer McClure — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 16:37:23 +0000

Thanks for including a link to my post Cynthia and adding your commentary! I agree with your points about extroverts being considered “normal” and introverts – not so much. As a card carrying introvert (self anointed), I’m usually amused at the responses I get from people when after interacting with them in some way, that fact is exposed. You’d think I just told them I had a disease or something – “No! That can’t be true!”, etc. :)

As for how being an introvert impacts my networking and recruiting – I prefer to look at it as a process. When I follow the process and just do what I know needs to be done, it’s much more comfortable for me. You make solid points that we should consider how our social recruiting efforts are received by both personality types in the future.