First Aid for Introverts in an Extroverted Workplace: A Skeptic’s Guide to Neutralizing the Eighteen Main Sources of Introvert Pain, One Item At a Time Paperback – 13 Dec. 2022

Mr. Plumb has an engaging conversational style that draws the reader in. He establishes his credibility right away in the "Why I'm a relevant source of advice" section which preemptively answers the "Why should I trust you" question I always ask when reading books like this. Each concept is broken down into clear, understandable pieces, and his personal stories help provide a valuable context for what this might look like in real life. The exercises throughout the book are realistic and encourage introspection which, speaking for myself as an introvert, makes me feel like he understands the fundamental structure of how I process things. The Appendices are also a handy reference guide to return to even after finishing the book.The only thing that would make this book better would be a citation page for his sources somewhere in the book. I found the discussion of the way introverts and extroverts process dopamine (located at the beginning) quite fascinating and I'd love to see his sources so I can use them as a jumping-off point to do some further exploration of this concept. Brain function and learning are a special interest of mine and it would be fun to read more about this now that I've read the book!

I would imagine reading this book would be a lot like sitting down with Plumb at coffee and asking him about his life and how he navigated his many responsibilities and varied roles while being an introvert. Filled with personal stories, tangible how-to's, and general advice, this book is a helpful read that is easy to understand and enjoyable throughout.Plumb does start off the book clearly stating that his book is not meant to be prescriptive, and does not have any medical basis. I appreciate that he is straightforward about this, as there are really no additional sources to back up his claims; it does feel as though verified sources might have been helpful in validating his claims.A wonderful aspect of this book is how tangible it is to daily life. He goes through the different "pains" of introverts, and gives multiple ways to address them. He not only encourages introverts to work well in a largely extroverted workplace, but gives the tools to do so - What a helpful book to put together!If you are an introvert in a workplace in which you struggle, I would recommend this book!

This is a must-read book for extroverts and introverts alike. From the beginning, Plumb captures the reader’s interest with his candid stories about how he navigated the extroverted workplace as an introvert. His goal seems genuine – to help readers take control of their careers through creating a workplace that supports the unique strengths of introverts.Plumb accomplishes this goal through writing a book that is equal parts motivational and equal parts how-to manual. He shares 18 key insights and lessons which cover Plumb’s personal experience, advice for the reader, and exercises to develop a personalized career plan.Unlike Plumb, I am an extrovert. That said, I still found this book very valuable. Not only did it teach me how I can create an individualized and supportive workplace, but it also helped me develop a new appreciation and understanding for my introverted colleagues. I highly recommend reading it if you are struggling to find a workplace where you can thrive.

Growing up I always considered myself an extrovert. I love performing, and I prefer a lot of attention. But at the same time, I was weirdly shy. Like I wouldn’t mind being called on stage by a magician but I couldn’t ask an usher at that same show where the bathroom was? As I’ve been getting older, I only found these contradictions to have gotten worse. Mixed company often triggers anxiety for me and inserting myself into an already established group dynamic is my worst nightmare.Many of the tips in this book are very helpful. I rolled my eyes at a few, but I think you find that with most self help books. I feel like I can practice and start having these things come naturally without having to think about them which would be ideal. Anyway, I think it’s worth the read even if you don’t consider yourself an introvert and just find yourself occasionally having trouble in some social situations, especially the workplace.

The author has such a niche way of capitalizing on the advantages of introversion a d how to navigate with it in the corporate world.I grew up in a highly introverted family and community so that is pretty embedded in me bit at the same time as you grow up you realize being introverted tends to be more detrimental than being extrovert.This book is a " how-to-guide for people struggling in highly stimulating ( socially stimulating) situations at work, such as contributing to teamwork projects and meetings.I am still at the stage were I am trying hard to be as extroverted as I can so that I am seen, heard and noticed in the workplace. So, this was rely a good read.And the author captures the stage I am in really perfectly.  He mentions the ability to grow and become a solo contributor and exercise your passions to work the way that accentuates your strengths best.One of my favorite quotes was "You will not have to change who you are – just learn to use a new set of workplace insights that actually employ your introversion as an asset"