Shy People Tend to Have This Coveted Leadership Skill

o, you're never first to raise your hand during meetings and you're uncomfortable schmoozing with strangers at networking events. Does that mean you're doomed to fail in the business world? Not even close, shy one.

Those on the quiet side tend to be good listeners, giving them a serious edge over their more talkative, sometimes oversharing counterparts, says etiquette coach Jacqueline Whitmore, founder of The Protocol School of Palm Beach.

"That's a really important skill that most of us need more practice [on]," she says.

If you're a shy entrepreneur looking to grow your business, Whitmore says there are several secret weapons that can help you. For one, be sure to hire people whose strengths are your weaknesses – particularly in marketing or sales, where having a more outgoing personality tends to be of greater importance.

Also, if you're really nervous about meeting someone face to face, start out with email or IM before graduating to an in-person interaction.

At the same time, challenge yourself to break out of your shell. Whitmore, who describes herself as having a shy side, says you can learn to face down your fears through practice.

"I know when to turn on the charm. I know when I have to work a room. I know when I have to teach a course. It's an acquired skill," she says.

Apart from what Whitmore has talked of,.....

Personally, am a very shy person and surprisingly l have being chosen for most leadership positions. Am not to blow my own horn but l think those SHY people out there should know that they aren't alone.Because of my slim body ,it somehow made me shy but less did l know l could lead people.My friends and Seniors will always pick me to either speak on their behalf when they are to be punished,go the house master to speak for them etc : l was the Senior School Prefect in Junior High School and Senior School Prefect again in Senior High School automatically making me the Students Representative Council President (SRC).-Dolland Kelly

If you are that shy please don't let it rule you but also remember you are born a leader.

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Source:Entrepreneur.com