What happens when introverts and extroverts work together?
Introverts and extroverts working together “comprise a formidable team,” says David G. Susler, associate general counsel at National Material L.P. and co-author of Change Yourself and Change Your Business, two books offering tips for attorneys at every stage of their careers. He co-wrote both books with his wife Christina L. Martini, a partner at McDermott Will & Schulte. The couple recently answered questions about the role of emotional intelligence in leadership, the importance of intuition and what both extroverts and introverts bring to a legal career. Susler sees himself as an extrovert, while Martini is an introvert.
What does it mean to be introverted, and what does it mean to be extroverted?
Martini: We talk about these concepts on an energy level. Being introverted means that a person recharges their batteries by being alone rather than being with others, while an extrovert gains energy by being with others. This tendency often manifests itself through work habits and how people spend their free time. If introverts do not get enough alone time, they can feel run down and edgy, while extroverts may feel that way when they have been alone for too long.
In what ways can introverts shine in a legal career? What about extroverts?
Martini: Introverts possess strong listening skills, are deep thinkers and strive to see all sides to a situation before making a decision. They conduct thorough research and writing, pay attention to detail, and practice measured and impactful communications. Many successful lawyers and leaders are also introverts.
Susler: Extroverts are typically more outgoing in groups of people and can help galvanize groups and raise the energy level of an entire room. They are often seen as natural leaders and can use their energy and charisma to enroll others in their vision for the success of their organization or capture a jury’s attention. Extroverts know when to make adjustments, such as calling for a break from a meeting or group activity.
How can they help each other at work?
Susler: The extrovert can help the introvert be more comfortable in a crowd, such as at a networking event or large meeting. The introvert can help the extrovert listen and better understand what the client is truly asking for. The introvert may plan the strategy, and the extrovert delivers it as the closing argument or meeting presentation.
What are some challenges introverts and extroverts face?
Martini: Introverts face the challenge of being misunderstood. They are neither shy nor aloof; they simply need more alone time than extroverts. While introverts may be quiet, it does not mean they do not have anything to say. Introverts can be hard to read since quite often they do not speak their minds freely unless they are with others whom they know well and trust. They generally do not enjoy engaging in idle chitchat and instead seek a more meaningful connection with others.
Susler: Extroverts can tend to take over a room and inadvertently silence others’ thoughts and opinions if they are not paying attention to the room. Extroverts may also be expected to have answers when they do not have them, and the extrovert may be reticent to ask others for input, leading to less-than-ideal outcomes.
What is emotional intelligence and what role can it play in a person’s legal career?
Martini: Emotional intelligence is all about awareness—not only self-awareness and being able to manage and regulate your own emotions, but also to read the room to sense the feelings of others and respond in a way that demonstrates and leverages that awareness to strengthen relationships, rather than fracturing them.
What role should intuition play in a legal career and why?
Susler: Intuition, the ability to reach a conclusion or understand something instinctively, can often provide an important data point to reach the best answer to a legal issue. When our intuition rings the bell, particularly when our gut feelings bubble to the surface, we strongly recommend giving serious thought to what those are and to not prematurely dismiss them, as they are often gold and, if properly considered, will often lead us to tremendous opportunities and successes that we may not otherwise partake in.
Are there ways for people to increase their emotional intelligence? If so, what are they?
Susler: Yes. Taking steps to become more self-aware and to effectively self-manage can include creating a space to think, reflect and self-correct. This can be done through journaling, mindfulness practices or any activity that enables one to meaningfully check in with themselves.
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