Those describing introverts as the ones who actually get things done may be right most of the time. However,here's the reality check - they are often too timid and reserved to take credit for their hard work, so others take it. I spent the earlier part of my career burning the midnight oil expecting to get rewarded for hard work. Once I realized I wasn't self-promoting enough my attitude changed and I started getting ahead. At least when it comes to careers in most industries, without a doubt, you have to be liked by those above you and show leadership qualities to get promoted. Once you become more flexible in your attitude you will gain valuable skills that often get you ahead (e.g. by leveraging others to do more work you get to know who is good at what, which puts you in a manager's shoes). Introverts are also usually reversed, which is more often than not mistaken for lacking ambition. This is the most valuable career advice I give my subordinates. Honestly, I am still an introvert at heart, but I must admit that because I can't spend all my time with my teams, the only voice I hear is from those who speak the loudest... I generally know who does and does not work hard, but at the end of the day the introverts are well-managed by their peers and the high-quality work is getting done. This is what the boss thinks like. It's true that introverts have accomplished great things, but the majority of us work for others and have to face reality.