For introverts, large gatherings – especially networking event – are a drain on energy.

Rather than try to “touch base” with a number of people, introverts prefer to invest time and energy in their relationships, and enjoy having substantive conversations with one or two people at a time. This translates into an essential leadership skill.

You may have heard the saying “results move at the speed of relationships”.

One-on-one connection is where introverts shine. Your strengths are your ability to listen, to ask probing questions, to get to know people as individuals.

When you invest in one-on-one relationships with your team, good things happen. Your people will feel heard and understood, and they’ll go the extra mile for you.

The trust you build will also help your people to more readily communicate about issues early in a project, which makes course corrections easier and less costly.

Acknowledge your introvert strength of one-on-one relationships. Show up authentically, and great leadership becomes much more comfortable and effective.

How have your one-on-one relationships served your leadership? Drop a line in the comments.