Notes and news, insights and inspiration from the autonomous collective mind of GS.

… you will go far.” —Teddy Roosevelt

People in the agency world are talking a lot about a new book by Susan Cain called Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking.

I’m looking forward to reading it, even though for me it might seem more like a biography.

Inside the world of advertising, where hard sells and networking are the expectation, and collaboration and brainstorming the norm, there lie some still waters … and they do run deep. I know a number of understated coworkers and clients who have a voice and command respect. They make an impact without making a lot of noise.

What this says to me is that those on both sides of the aisle can contribute to successful project outcomes – provided we rise above our own extrovert-introvert constraints.

Here’s a partial list of where we can start (additions from your own experience are welcome):

EXTROVERTS –

•     Talk less and listen more to others who might have ideas to contribute but can’t get them in

•     Be insightful and provide options to filter out the “noise” – sticky notes, for instance, to capture ideas from the quieter members of the crowd

•     Promote working solo before gathering for group critiques, as an alternative to working collaboratively

INTROVERTS –

•     Challenge yourself to contribute in brainstorming sessions without relying on others to carry the load, even if interrupting makes you uncomfortable

•     Try to not overcompensate in your approach, or you won’t be taken seriously

•     Partner with an extrovert – someone you can play off of – to help get your ideas across

True collaboration extends beyond the limits of today’s work environment. By being flexible enough to make room for everyone to contribute – quiet or not –we can greatly improve as individuals and as creative companies. And together we’ll “go far.”

For an op-ed of Susan Cain’s book, check out her article in The New York Times Sunday Review.