Neither extrovert nor introvert. Why every team needs an ‘otrovert’

The otroverts

Coined by psychiatrist Rami Kaminski in 2025 and derived from the Latin root for “other” and “vert,” meaning “turn toward,” “otrovert” describes someone who doesn’t fit comfortably into the familiar categories of introvert or extrovert. Otroverts can appear confident yet rarely experience themselves as joiners. They move easily between groups without feeling defined by them. They stand slightly apart, but close enough to see what others miss.

Otroverts want to belong, but not if the price is losing the independence that allows them to see things differently. They value connection deeply but are reluctant to surrender their own judgment to become part of the crowd or to court popularity. There can be freedom in that position, although it can sometimes feel lonely.

Every organization needs an otrovert

Businesses rightly value people who create cohesion, but they also need individuals who can see the whole landscape. Otroverts are capable of being both observers and participants. Because they are less invested in belonging to a tribe, they can bridge departments and cultures. At times chameleon-like, they can enter different environments, quickly understand their culture and language, yet retain enough distance to see clearly.