Some people think before they talk.
Others think by talking.
As an executive coach, I’ve learned that not everyone processes information the same way. I wish I was more aware of these differences much earlier in my career.
Extraverts often process information out loud.
↳ As they’re speaking, they’re sorting through ideas, testing assumptions, and working toward a conclusion in real time.
↳ The audience gets a front-row seat to the thinking process.
The challenge?
People sometimes mistake thinking out loud for uncertainty, indecision, or lack of preparation.
In reality, they’re often watching someone work through a problem in real time.
Introverts often process internally first.
↳ By the time they speak, their thoughts are frequently more refined and organized.
↳ The tradeoff is that the conversation may have already moved on before they’re ready to contribute.
Neither approach is better.
They’re simply different ways of processing information.
As a leader, it’s worth recognizing both styles.
Be sure to create space for people who need:
↳ To think out loud.
↳ Time to think before they speak.
And if you’re talking to think, make sure to tell people you’re thinking out loud.
That one sentence can prevent a lot of confusion.
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