Most people assume they’re either an introvert or an extrovert.
But here’s the fun twist, up to two-thirds of us are actually ambiverts.
Ambiverts sit comfortably in the middle. We can draw on the best of both worlds, switching gears depending on the situation. That makes us pretty adaptable, whether we’re chatting at a BBQ, leading a team meeting, or quietly recharging with a book and a cup of tea.
So, where do you reckon you sit?
Try this quick check. Answer Yes or No to each of these:
- I enjoy parties and meeting new people, but I also crave quiet nights at home.
- I feel energised by good conversations, but drained by small talk.
- Sometimes I love being the centre of attention, other times I’d rather just observe.
- I can be talkative with friends, but quiet in new groups.
- I like leading discussions, but I’m also happy to listen.
- I’m comfortable networking, but I need downtime afterwards.
- People describe me as “balanced” or “easy to get along with.”
- My energy often depends on the people I’m with.
- I enjoy both 1-on-1s and group gatherings (for different reasons).
- I can adapt my communication style to fit the situation.
- I don’t feel fully introverted or extroverted, I’m somewhere in the middle.
If you answered mostly No: you probably lean more strongly toward introversion or extroversion (and there are great strategies for both).
If you answered mostly Yes: congratulations, you’re likely an ambivert!
The Ambivert Advantage
I’m an ambivert myself, and discovering that was a total game changer.
It turns out this middle ground is a bit of a superpower.
Research shows ambiverts are often some of the most persuasive and effective communicators.
Why? Because we can:
→ Adapt to different situations, chatty at a party, reflective in a deep conversation.
→ Balance listening and speaking, people feel heard and engaged.
→ Connect easily with both introverts and extroverts, acting as natural bridges between the two.
One study even found that ambiverts outsell both pure extroverts and introverts, simply because they know when to talk and when to listen.
But There’s a Catch
Ambiverts need to manage their energy carefully. It’s easy to stretch too far trying to “be both.”
A few helpful reminders:
→ Honour your energy cycles. Don’t overfill your social calendar. Build in time to recharge. Think about who and what gives you energy. I can spend all day at a conference, but barely last 30 minutes at a Christmas party where I only know the host.
→ Flex your social style. Not all ambiverts are the same. Some are storytellers. Others are quiet observers. What’s your version? Lean into it.
→ Use it strategically. Ambiverts tend to shine in roles that rely on collaboration, leadership, or sales, anywhere relationships matter. Tell your team or boss about your natural social rhythm. It helps others understand how you operate best.
There’s real power in understanding where you sit on the introvert–extrovert spectrum.
Once you know your rhythm, you can work with it, not against it.
Want to know for sure? take this test.
More on this soon…need help in the meantime? Why not take my Personal Values short course and find out more about what drives you? Book in to find out more.