Introvert, Extrovert, or Ambivert?

What energizes you? Being at a party with lots of people that you interact with? Or does that scenario zap your energy by just thinking about it? These are questions that are often used to determine if you are an extrovert or an introvert. While these types of questions can be helpful to know your propensities and how to manage your own self-care and 're-charging' of your internal batteries, they can also be an oversimplification of the complex personalities that all of us have.

An ambivert is someone whose social behavior and energy use is between introversion and extroversion. The traits of introversion and extroversion exist on a continuum, and most of us fall somewhere in the middle of that continuum. In other words, we are not simply an extrovert or an introvert. We are a combination of both.

Most people have a range of introverted and extroverted actions and activities they participate in regularly. For instance, an ambivert may be energized by both being around people and prioritizing time alone. Introverts can enjoy social activities, while some extroverts need downtime to recharge.

The concept of the ambivert is one of the most important understandings you can have about yourself in order to truly thrive in all areas of life. It allows you to create a balance between your need for social stimulation and solitude so that you can both engage in activities that bring you joy and also get the rest you need.

So how does this apply to the workplace? Adam Grant, author, and professor at Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania analyzed 35 separate studies and found the statistical relationship between extroversion and income was basically zero.

He conducted a personality survey and collected three-month sales records for more than 300 salespeople, both male and female. The people who ranked right in the middle for extroversion and introversion–ambiverts–turned out to be the best salespeople.

“Ambiverts pulled in 24% more revenue than introverts, and a mind-boggling 32% more revenue than extroverts!”

In a work environment, the ambivert has both an introvert’s ability to listen and observe as well as an extrovert's skill in networking and persuasion. This combination can be incredibly powerful when it comes to interacting with colleagues and making meaningful connections internally and with clients/customers.

The key takeaway is that being an ambivert is not only a valid personality trait, but can also be an advantage when it comes to interacting with others, setting boundaries, and achieving success both in the workplace and in life. So don’t limit yourself to one label or another — embrace who you are as an ambivert!

If you ever wondered if you are an introvert that sometimes acts like an extrovert... or an extrovert that sometimes is introverted.... chances are you are an ambivert living somewhere on the spectrum between introversion and extroversion. Embrace it and explore new possibilities.

What are your thoughts on ambiversion? Please let me know in the comments below.