Take A Walk On The Quiet Side
The premise of this book is that if you are an introvert, you don’t need to become an extrovert to succeed. What you need to do is learn how to make the most of your own natural, quiet strengths. On the other extreme, if you are an extrovert, you don’t need to remodel the introverts in your life to be more outgoing; instead, you will learn about the quiet ways in which introverts around you work and you will see the ways in which introverts succeed at influencing situations. Another way to look at it is to believe that “everyone can be a leader.”
Kahnweiler provides a simple evaluation tool to assess your own Quiet Influence Quotient. She delves into the meaning of “quiet influence” by explaining six strengths of introverts: taking quiet time; preparation; engaged listening; focused conversations; writing; and thoughtful use of social media. Each of these traits has strength on its own, yet, when rolled together, these strengths become even more robust.
The book spoke to me on many levels. It made good sense to me as I am an introvert. Although I am often an extrovert within my inner thoughts, I learned early on to become more introverted to "stay out of troubles." I also learned that -- in addition to validating my outward-facing introverted “style” -- I see ways in which my influence can have even greater reach if I hone all of the quiet influence strengths. Whether you have introvert or extrovert tendencies, I recommend this book to all as a guide.
[reviewed 1-4-2015]

This book is great for introverts to understand how they can use their unique powers to excel in their chosen careers whether it is a desk job, sales job or as an entrepreneur.

Jennifer claims to be an extrovert herself but I must say that she has observed her introvert colleagues were closely. She talks about the six strengths of introverts: Quiet Time, Preparation, Engaged Listening, Focused Conversation, Writing and Thoughtful Use of Social Media.

Her tips are indeed helpful and practical for both introverts and extroverts. Introverts may be good at listening but they may need to work on improving their skills. Extroverts too can learn a lot from engaged listening and focused conversations to become more approachable.

Jennifer also uses real life examples of how different people have used these strengths in different settings which is very valuable. It also makes the book more interesting to read.

You can also test your strengths in these six fields using what the author calls "Quiet Influence Quotient" or your QIQ to know how well you are doing with your six strengths and areas where you need to improve.

Not all strengths may be relevant. For example I am an Author and therefore writing and thoughtful use of social media is more important to me than engaged listening and focused conversation. Nevertheless, I consider all skills relevant and important.

I have no hesitation in recommending this book to anyone. ( )