Poster Session 3, 1:15 PM - 2:00 PM: Campus Center Auditorium [A76]

How Do Traditional Workplace Collaboration Methods Like Brainstorming Sessions, Open Floor Plan Offices, and Frequent Group Meetings Affect Productivity for Introverted People in the Workforce?

Presenter: Jessica Lynch

Faculty Sponsor: Esther Peralta

School: Northern Essex Community College

Research Area: Psychology and Behavioral Sciences

ABSTRACT

Identifying as an introvert or extrovert has been considered by many to simply be declaring a personality trait. A growing body of research suggests that these traits influence how productive we are at work and even how many opportunities we are offered. Introverts struggle to work to their fullest potential in a workplace that utilizes open office floor plans and a management team that puts high value on frequent meetings, and brainstorming sessions. What can be done to help introverts live up to their full potential in the workplace? This paper analyzes research studies and testimonials to consider how modern workplaces that include open office floor plans, brainstorming sessions and frequent meetings affect the productivity and creativity of introverts in the workplace. Based on the research and sources, significant decreases in productivity and creativity were noted not just in introverts, but in extroverts whose workplaces use these models. The data also shows that many introverted voices are unheard in these workplaces and the weight of the constant socialization required leaves them feeling mentally drained. The modern office aimed at maximizing collaboration can hinder introverts’ careers. Based on this data, the paper suggests alternate workplace methods that benefit introverts, and their more extroverted counterparts, to ensure a more balanced workplace that allows everyone’s voice to be heard.

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