I keep hearing people say that being an introvert offers a number of advantages for a software developer. Have you ever heard this opinion? Do you agree?
I decided to check whether this is a myth or reality and read a dozen of scientific articles on the topic. Majority of researches agree: a few basic traits that characterize introvert developers give them relative advantages in comparison with their extravertive colleagues working in the IT industry. Here is a list of statements in favor of the idea that I could find while reading:
1. They seem to focus on their tasks better, which often lets them excel in tasks that require deep concentration and uninterrupted focus – the crucial qualities in software development. Writing, debugging, and optimizing code often require long periods of concentration.
2. Introverts are more likely to achieve a “flow state,” where they are fully immersed in their work, leading to higher productivity and better quality of work.
3. Many introverts often display quite strong problem-solving skills. Thoughtful analysis is their medium of existence: they tend to think carefully before speaking or acting. An introvert is more likely to thoroughly analyze a problem before jumping to conclusions than an extravert. As a result, their code may be more robust and well-considered.
4. Majority of introverts are quite detail-oriented, which means leaving fewer bugs and producing more stable software.
5. Introverts generally enjoy working alone, which is beneficial in tasks that require minimal collaboration. This independence and comfort with solitude allow them to progress on projects without constant input from others, making them self-sufficient developers.
6. Many introverts are known to have very good listening and observational skills. While they may not dominate conversations, they are often excellent listeners. This allows them to understand client requirements, user needs, or team discussions thoroughly before contributing thoughtfully.
7. Traditionally, introverts are a bit better then others at putting themselves in the users’ shoes. This often gives them good chances to come up with user-friendly designs and solutions.
8. Introverts often spend more time reflecting, which can lead to creative and innovative ideas. They may come up with unique solutions to problems by thinking deeply and exploring multiple angles.
9. Their tendency to process information internally can lead to innovative approaches to software design and architecture.
10. And finally, introverts seems to have lower need for social interaction and are less likely to get distracted while working.

A study performed by researchers at Politechnika Warshawska shows interesting results that prove some degree of prevalence of introverts above extraverts in It industry. Here is a table with some statistics they found:

They say, introverts are more inclined to become developers than extraverts. Well, definitely, there are representatives of both psychological types in the industry, but the qualities of introverts which I listed here can certainly help a person to achieve success in the career in the IT industry.