Do Great Leaders Have to be Outgoing?

November 8, 2020

By Cassandra Dross

Being a great leader holds many responsibilities, numerous people such as Guy Kawasaki, Susan Cain, and even students here at Liberty have different opinions on the subject. Have you ever thought about what it takes to be a great leader? There are thousands of great leaders who aren’t outgoing, or who are introverts. A great example of someone who considers themselves not outgoing and who is still a great leader is Guy Kawasaki. Kawasaki is the “Godfather of Silicon Valley” and chief evangelist of Canva. He gives many talks on the picture of extroversion and even talks on enchantment, but has always considered himself to be an introvert. On August 11, 2008 Kawasaki tweeted “@suebob You may find this hard to believe, but I am an introvert. I have a “role” to play, but I fundamentally am a loner.” In a conversation with Susan Cain, American writer, lecturer, an author of the 2012 non-fiction book Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, Kawasaki told her “I look upon many of my activities as a role thrust upon me–not ‘me’ per se. It’s like being an actor–you don’t have to be an axe murderer to play an axe murderer. And when the role is over, it’s over.” Do you think he’s right?

On the other hand there are also many people who think the opposite. On debate.org the question: Do you think a great leader must be outgoing? was posed. An anonymous person responded “Outgoing leaders are often more liked and adored than other leaders. They are usually more creative and courageous than others, not being afraid to state their opinion and belief. Introverts can be good leaders, but the outgoing factors of a leader separate the good from the great.”

Let’s talk to some students here at Liberty and see what they say on the subject. Senior Maggie McKernan answered “I think they do to an extent. You don’t have to be the most outgoing person in the world, but I think being a little outgoing goes a long way when it comes to getting people involved in activities and stuff like that. I think it’s more so dancing to the beat of your own drum that makes a great leader.” Next, freshman Aidan Baumeier responded “In my opinion, I do not think that great leaders need to be outgoing, however I think there are certain aspects a person must have in order to earn the trust of the people they lead. One is the ability to command, not demand, the respect and trust of his or her people. If the virtues and beliefs they possess and teach follow in the greater interest of the community, then the people will listen and the respect and responsibility of a great leader will follow.” Take a minute and think, Can I be a great leader even if I'm not an outgoing person?