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It's no secret that banking attracts a disproportionate share of introverts. While being analytical and detailed oriented may make you good at your job, sadly these traits alone are unlikely to get you promoted. Introverts can however make great leaders. Introverted leaders tend to be calm, observant, good listeners and considerate. They are also more likely to follow through with actions rather than being "all talk", often setting them apart from their extroverted peers. But how does an introvert go from a worker bee in the trenches to getting noticed and promoted?

Tip 1: Speak up

While it's natural for an introvert to avoid the spotlight, try to make positive suggestions and comments at meetings. Don't say something just to say yes or to reaffirm someone else's opinion. Instead, constructively challenge a new idea or opinion if you disagree or believe there are ways to do it better. No bank would be successful if it hired a thousand people who all think the same. You were hired because your opinion is valued so make sure it's heard. Don't be afraid to ask questions. If you genuinely think something is unclear, chances are others will be thinking the same. Don't let an extrovert beat you to it and claim credit for appearing more attentive, proactive, or intelligent than you.

Tip 2: Say 'yes'

It seems simple, but many introverts fly below the radar simply because they don't say 'yes'. It's not always about agreeing to work late on a project or cover someone else's shift, it's about saying yes to opportunities that are likely to get you noticed by leaders within the organisation. Why not volunteer to present at the next group meeting, help with graduate recruitment, or mentor a new member of staff? If you're invited to an event or meeting you wouldn't normally attend, say yes, even if you struggle to see how you could add value or feel way out of your comfort zone. You were invited for a purpose and if you decline, invitations are less likely to come around again. Make a concerted effort to network and meet new people at the event. To be seen as a leader, firstly you must be seen.

Tip 3: Display integrity

Integrity is important in any workplace, and necessary in banking. It's a characteristic that we expect from our leaders and is taken seriously when making promotion decisions. Integrity involves being honest, taking accountability, honouring confidentiality, and showing empathy. Because introverts value detail, they tend not to overlook rules or cut corners, which tends to make acting with integrity more instinctual, instilling the trust of others. Doing the right thing shows leadership and it does get noticed. Admit when you have made a mistake, address it, learn from it, and move on. If a colleague is facing a challenge, offer to listen and suggest solutions to their situation. By demonstrating integrity, you will help develop a culture of integrity around you and set the foundation for a workplace with sound moral values.

Sources:

• www.lisapetrilli.com/2010/06/22/the-introverts-guide-to-getting-promoted-step-one
• www.thesimpledollar.com/nine-simple-ways-to-stand-out-in-your-career
• smallbusiness.chron.com/examples-integrity-workplace-10906.html