You don’t have to be loud to be a good leader.
Up to 50% of people are introverts, and yet traditional leadership books focus on how to “fix” introversion so you can be a better leader. But what if being an introvert was the thing that made you better? Introverts are naturally good listeners, receptive to ideas from others, and reflect deeply - making them empathetic, humble and self-aware. These and other leadership qualities make introverts able to bring out the best of employees and make them feel valued and respected, and the end result is improved team and company performance.
Building on research and interviews by the author, Quiet Leader will help all introverts understand the value they add to their organisation, be proud of the skills they have, and understand the extrovert bias they encounter. Extrovert readers will find ways to enhance their performance using the natural skills of the introvert and learn more about the benefits of neurodiversity. Rather than changing your personality, Quiet Leader gives everyone - extroverts included - a better understanding of how to become better leaders and create more inclusive cultures. With tangible examples, exercises and new ideas for reflection, you’ll find ways to enhance your skills by adopting the strategies and tools provided.
Quiet Leader by Sissel Heiberg is the ideal textbook to help introverted business professionals “come out of their shell”, by using their introversion to improve their leadership. Unlike the traditional leadership books that focus on “fixing” introversion, this textbook provides the toolkit to nurture your strengths as a leader and manager.
Arvustused
"An invaluable read for introverts and extroverts alike, challenging stereotypes and illuminating the profound impact of the quiet leader."
Elizabeth Honer, former CEO of a UK central government agency
"Unique insights into the value introverts bring to leadership roles. A must-read for contemporary leadership theorists."
Peter M. Jones, former CEO of the Institute of Internal Auditors Australia
A fantastic and easy-to-read research-based book which gives both introverts and extroverts useful tools, and helps an introvert like myself to see that being an introvert is a strength. This book should be part of the national curriculum! Any organisation wanting to optimise employee performance should make this book part of their internal training."
Ellen Brataas, CEO Institute of Internal Auditors Norway
Im usually the loudest person in the room. This book made me want to be the quietest.
Jill McCullough, Personal impact coach working with CEOs and multinationals
What brought us here
Part 1: Introversion at work
1. Are you an introvert?
2. Why were biased in favour of extroverts
3. What types of leaders do we want and need?
4. Creating successful and diverse teams
5. How to flex your behaviour to any situation
Part 2: The quiet leaders skills
Skills quiz: Which areas do you want to focus on?
6. I think, therefore I am (Reflection)
7. Human, know thyself (Self-awareness)
8. You see? (Observation)
9. Do you hear me? (Listening)
10. I feel you (Empathy)
11. Eating humble pie (Humility)
12. Keep calm and carry on (Calmness)
Where do we go next?
Sissel Heiberg is an introverted business leader with close to 20 years of governance experience in investment banking and financial services more broadly. She holds a BA in English and International Market Communication from Norway, her native country, an MA in International Business Management from Newcastle University, and an MSc in International Relations from London School of Economics. Shes a qualified accountant (ACCA), holds the project management qualification PMP and is a Certified Internal Auditor. She recently left financial services to found Foss & Bjørn, a sensory jewellery company, where she is owner and Managing Director. She lives in East London with her fiancé and their baby son.