Have you ever felt like neither introversion nor extroversion accurately captures your true personality? It’s a common sentiment, yet many don’t realize there are alternative terms that may more accurately describe their disposition. Enter: omniverts and ambiverts.
Ambiverts and omniverts might be better suited to some people than the binary of simply being an introvert or extrovert. It’s true. Many people find themselves somewhere in between or even a combination of both.
Even in the business world, leaders striving to bring success to their organizations must look beyond the traditional introvert/extrovert personalities. By categorizing team members with these labels alone, you limit how they think, interact and collaborate in the workplace, potentially hindering productivity and profitability. That’s why recognizing and understanding the nuances between ambiverts, omniverts, and traditional intro/extro personalities is so important.
In this article, we’ll explore what ambiverts and omniverts are, their differences, and which makes a better leader.
Let’s get started!
What Is An Ambivert?
Simply put, an ambivert is someone who displays characteristics of both introverts and extroverts. That means they can be highly social and enjoy being around people but also need downtime to recharge. Ambiverts can move effortlessly between these two ends of the spectrum and are naturally attuned to the needs of others. Hence, they are great listeners and communicators, both personally and in the work context.
Furthermore, they have the confidence to reach out and connect with people, which is just as important for introverts as it is for their extroverted counterparts. While there are still elements of introversion at play (e.g., chances are, an ambivert won’t be dancing on tables at a party), overall, those who identify as ambiverts usually possess an even balance of both traits.
What Is An Omnivert?
Omniverts are unique, exhibiting extreme extroversion and introversion, depending on the day. This combination of traits allows them to quickly adapt between different situations.
In some cases, they may feel socially awkward or uncomfortable; in others, they might be very comfortable and happy to draw attention to themselves. Overall, an omnivert exhibits both introverted and extroverted qualities, although their behaviors may be more strongly weighted towards one than the other, depending on the day.
Omniverts may be the star of work conferences, socializing and making valuable connections as they move through business circles. However, beneath this professional act lies a need to retreat after long days, switching off from intense social interactions to recharge with ‘me’ time. This characteristic yin-yang pattern can sometimes appear inconsistent or erratic, leading some individuals towards mental health issues due to an inability for internal balance.
Ambivert Vs. Omnivert: Key Differences
| AMBIVERT TYPICAL TRAITS | OMNIVERT TYPICAL TRAITS |
|---|---|
| Has the perfect balance of extrovert-introvert traits | Makes extreme transitions between being an extrovert and introvert |
| Swiftly adapts and responds to whatever the situation requires | Reacts either as an extrovert or introvert based on what others expect from them |
| Exhibits stability | Can often act and talk like two different people |
| Behaviors are consistent | No consistency, makes other people confuse with their actions |
| Usually perceived as balanced and normal by others | Usually perceived as unbalanced and abnormal by others |
Ambivert Vs. Omnivert: Difference In Workplace
Many aspects of leadership depend upon the individual, and whether they are ambivert or omnivert plays a large role. Ambiverts have excellent emotional intelligence, which empowers them with strong interpersonal relationships that create a unified team atmosphere. Meanwhile, omniverts possess remarkable adaptability to adjust in any situation for maximum efficiency.
Adam Grant, a psychology professor at the University of Pennsylvania and an expert on personality types, found that ambiverts are particularly successful in business, especially in sales. An ambivert can understand customers’ interests while demonstrating enough enthusiasm for their product or service. According to Grant, this is key for success both in gaining clients and closing deals.
In contrast, an omnivert’s extreme personality traits can actually be a hindrance when it comes to generating sales revenue. Ultimately, Grant’s findings illustrate how moderation is key for optimal success in the workplace; striking a balance between extremes may just be your ticket for professional progress!
Who Makes A Better Leader Between Ambivert And Omnivert?
So, depending on Grant’s research and what we know about ambiverts and omniverts, it’s safe to say that an ambivert leader is usually the most successful. Ambiverts possess enough emotional intelligence to communicate effectively and be attentive towards their team, yet still have the confidence to reach out and connect with others.
On the other hand, omniverts are great at adapting to any situation, but their tendency towards extremes can lead to a lack of balance and consistency in their roles as leaders.
Why Should Leaders Become Ambiverts?
Successful leaders possess the power to swing from introversion and extroversion effortlessly. Karl Moore, a management professor at McGill University, stresses that for individuals to be effective as an influential figure today, they master this skill set commonly referred to as ambiverts. This attribute allows them to excel through bettering interpersonal connections with others.
Leaders come in different shapes and sizes, but all great ones know how to balance between introvert and extrovert. From celebrated figures such as Eleanor Roosevelt, Abraham Lincoln, Princess Diana, and Barack Obama to Al Gore’s campaigning prowess or Elon Musk’s trailblazing innovation, there is evidence that strong leadership entails the ability to balance extroverted and introverted traits.
How To Develop More Ambivert-Like Qualities?
Control Your Environment:
Being mindful of your environment helps you to adjust accordingly. If you feel overwhelmed in social situations, step away and refocus. Or, if you’re feeling too low-key and stuck in your shell, take the time to reach out and find new opportunities outside your comfort zone.
Recognize Your Triggers:
Omniverts tend to show different facets of their personality depending on their situation. Stress caused by work and social engagements may cause a sudden shift from being an extrovert one day to an introvert the next, which can be avoided with increased self-awareness regarding what triggers these changes.
To know your triggers, take the time to reflect on how you usually react or feel in certain situations. With that knowledge, you can plan your day accordingly and work on staying balanced.
Try To Cultivate the Personality Traits You Lack:
Create a list of the personality traits that you feel you lack. For example, if you’re an introvert, consider traits such as being calculated, calm, systematic, and reflective. If you’re an extrovert, consider characteristics like being passionate, inspiring, energetic, and bold. Try cultivating these traits in yourself, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a great leader.
Be Consistent:
Consistency is an important trait for any ambivert, as it allows them to act in a balanced manner and not overreact to every situation. Being consistent gives an ambivert the confidence to take on any role, whether challenging themselves by being the life of the party or playing it cool in a business meeting. This trait allows an ambivert to be adaptable while staying true to their values.
Wrapping Up
Leadership comes in many forms, but ambiverts are the ultimate multi-taskers. They can adapt to any situation, balancing the best of both worlds—introverted and extroverted. With more self-awareness about their triggers, ambiverts can remain consistent and in control. That allows them to build better relationships and make a real impact on their teams. Hence, being an ambivert helps you become the leader you’ve always wanted to be.
Having said that, if you’re an omnivert, don’t worry! With the right guidance and practice, you too can become a successful leader. All it takes is understanding your triggers and working with them instead of against them.
FAQs
Who is better, ambivert or omnivert?
The answer to “who is better between ambivert or omnivert” is that it really depends on the situation. However, if we are to choose, an ambivert would be better as they can balance their introverted and extroverted traits to thrive in any environment.
Can ambiverts be good leaders?
Absolutely! Ambiverts are good leaders because they can balance both introverted and extroverted qualities, allowing them to make well-informed decisions. Furthermore, they have a greater capacity for empathy and understanding than other types of leaders. That makes them great at dealing with people from all walks of life.
Who is a better leader between, introvert and extrovert?
Most people argue that an extrovert tends to be a better leader than an introvert. That’s because extroverts are driven by enthusiasm and are more capable of leading large teams.
What qualities make a good leader?
Good leaders are those who can inspire and motivate the people around them. They embody qualities like respect and justice, always displaying fairness despite their authority. An effective leader is also patient and understanding, having strong listening and communication skills that encourage collaboration.
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