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Is it time for the traditional extrovert leadership style to make room for quiet leadership — the introvert leader?

Popular views and decades of academic research on leadership tell us that extroverts are the best leaders—those who confidently and aggressively speak out, give orders, make bold plans and are the center of attention. People who are generally the most dominant, outgoing people. Names that come to mind are Oracle’s Larry Ellison or Virgin Group’s Richard Branson.

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Leaders who are extroverts are favoured in recruiting and promotion decisions, and are often perceived by supervisors and subordinates alike to be the most effective leaders. Yet this view may not be accurate, according to recent research. The workplace may now be more conducive to an introverted leadership style.

According to recent research by Francesca Gino of Harvard University and David Hoffman of the University of North Carolina, published in the Academy of Management Journal, there is a significant correlation between the kinds of leadership style needed and the personalities and behaviours of employees.