What We’re Reading: “Quiet”

by Andrew Downing

With Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking Susan Cain has turned psychology, a boring academic subject, into an enjoyable story exploring what it’s like to be an introvert in a world that overvalues extroversion. Her great writing and in-depth research examines the strengths of introverts and warns us against revering extroverts. Our whole lives we are told to speak up, be more outgoing, make more friends, and participate in class, but Cain explains why that is the wrong attitude. It’s not that introverts or extroverts are better. Instead, they work together to form a harmonious social landscape.

For introvert leaders Quiet is a crucial book showing them how to best use their strengths. For extroverts Cain explains why they should pay more attention to introverts and allow more time for workers to innovate on their own. The business world’s recent push for group-work and open workspaces may hinder many introverts, and leaders can use Cain’s research to make sure all of their employees are comfortable in the office.