3 Ways Introverted Leaders Can Master Workplace Politics, with Cynthia Pong, JD

Ever feel like workplace politics favors extroverts? Learn three powerful strategies that turn thoughtful leadership into a strategic advantage—and why careful observation beats being the loudest voice in the room. In this episode you will learn three powerful strategies that turn thoughtful leadership into a strategic advantage—and why careful observation beats being the loudest voice in the room.

EPISODE SUMMARY:

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN:

Ever feel like workplace politics favors extroverts? In this episode, you'll learn why introverted leaders (or leaders who prefer introversion) often hold untapped advantages in navigating complex organizational dynamics. Drawing from 20 years of negotiation expertise––and as an introvert herself––Cynthia Pong, JD, shares three practical strategies for building influence authentically while reframing how we think about power dynamics in the workplace. Whether you're leading teams, navigating matrixed organizations, or building cross-functional relationships, introverts and extroverts alike will discover how to leverage their natural strengths to shape outcomes and advance organizational goals—without compromising their values or contorting their personality.

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ABOUT OUR GUEST:

Cynthia Pong, JD, brings 20 years of negotiation expertise and strategic leadership advising to her work as an executive coach. A Forbes Contributor on Leadership Strategy and LinkedIn Top Voice, her insights on power, influence, and workplace dynamics have been featured in Harvard Business Review, The Atlantic, and major networks. A former public defender, she earned her law degree from NYU and graduated from Brown University with a degree in Ethnic Studies. Her Anthem Award-winning Leadership Accelerator program equips leaders to navigate complex organizational politics while staying authentic, with graduates securing prestigious fellowships at the White House, Harvard, and Stanford. She is the author of Don't Stay in Your Lane: The Career Change Guide for Women of Color.

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LINKS MENTIONED IN EPISODE:

www.gotowerscope.com

https://linkedin.com/in/embracechangenyc/

https://www.forbes.com/sites/cynthiapong/ 

https://www.youtube.com/embracechangenyc

https://instagram.com/embracechangenyc/   

https://facebook.com/cynthia.pong.7

https://tiktok.com/@embracechangenyc 

https://www.embracechange.nyc/

https://www.embracechange.nyc/book

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