373: How Thoughtful Leadership Helps Introverts Contribute Their Best at Work with Salvatore Manzi

The Modern Manager

Most workplaces are designed with extroverts in mind, with open offices, constant collaboration, and fast-paced discussions. But this often leaves introverts struggling to fully contribute, even though their insights can be some of the most valuable.

Thankfully, today’s guest, Salvatore Manzi, brings clarity and solutions.

Salvatore is a leadership communications coach and the author of Clear and Compelling. With over 20 years of experience helping leaders amplify their influence, he specializes in equipping teams to communicate more effectively and harness the strengths of both introverts and extroverts.

In this episode, Salvatore shares how to design team practices that give introverts the space they need to thrive, including meeting structures, pre-work, and ways to balance workplace energy. You’ll also learn how to recognize and encourage quiet leadership, so managers of all styles can succeed.

In the extended conversation, Salvatore explores how to “break the seal” to engage introverts early, why metaphors can be a powerful communication tool, and additional strategies for fostering inclusive, high-performing teams.

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Listen to the conversation now!

Conversation Topics

• (00:00) Introduction
• (02:44) Introvert vs. Extrovert Behaviors
• (06:46) The Ten Second Rule & Choosing Words Carefully
• (11:01) Why Pre-Work Levels the Playing Field
• (15:16) Managing Workplace Energy and Avoiding Burnout
• (18:23) Remote vs. In-Office Needs for Introverts
• (23:02) Quiet Leadership, Boundaries, and Preparation
• (28:00) Best Boss Ever & Lessons in Leadership
• (28:46) Keep Up with Salvatore.
• (31:12) [Extended Episode Only] Breaking the Seal: Engaging Introverts Early
• (33:47) [Extended Episode Only] Metaphors Move Minds: The Power of Imagery

📚 Additional Resources:

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✨Read the transcript here

✨Check out Susan’ Cain’s book on introverts Quiet here

Keep up with Salvatore Manzi

- Connect with Salvatore on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/salvatorejmanzi/

- Get his book: https://www.salvatoremanzi.com/ccpb/

Guest bonus: 3 Free Consultations

Salvatore is giving away a free consultation to 3 members of Podcast+. This complimentary 75-minute virtual consultation (plus a 30-minute follow-up) is designed to help leaders address a real team challenge, whether it’s navigating feedback, introducing change, preparing a high-stakes presentation, or planning an off-site.

👉 To get this guest bonus and many other member benefits, become a member of The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community: https://themodernmanager.com/more

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The Modern Manager is a leadership podcast for rockstar managers who want to create a working environment where people thrive and great work gets done.