For the more introverted among us, the workplace – especially open-plan or overcrowded offices – can present some challenges.
If you’re starting a new job or are struggling with the social elements of your current gig, the following tips for navigating the workplace can help you to move from surviving to thriving in your workplace, all without compromising your authenticity.
1. Do what you need to feel confident
A common struggle for introverts is having to speak in a group setting.
If your job requires you to attend regular boardroom meetings, you may find yourself continually frustrated with your inability to interject something “worthwhile” into the discussion.
You’re not alone: many introverts report struggling with the ability to formulate quick answers or comments, and then articulating those remarks to the group.
Especially in workplace settings that require you to prove competency in collaborative settings, it may well be worth taking some time, even just five minutes, to research what you’ll be discussing.
Preparation will help to calm your mind and formulate responses in advance.
To improve your capability for public speaking, you might try choosing a new extra-curricular interest to improve your workplace performance.
This doesn’t mean trying to transform yourself into an extrovert, but rather, finding out if a joining a fun, supportive hobby group – such as Toastmasters or even a language or higher-education class that makes you contribute to group discussion – can make interpersonal work situations easier for you.
2. Take a break
Remember that you’re never chained to your desk.
If going for a walk through a quiet park nearby helps you gather your thoughts and recharge, then go ahead and flee the office (or save your escape for your set break time, if you have a strict manager).
Investing in a pair of quality headphones may be useful if you feel overwhelmed by the constant sound in the office.
If you feel constantly watched, see if you can ask for your own desk-screen.
Lastly, if you feel overwhelmed by constant office chat – another common sticking-point for introverts – then prepare a couple of excuses to extract yourself from any unwanted conversation (“deadline coming up, better get back to it!”; “sorry, I was just heading out!”).
3. Talk to your boss
Introverts are apt to immediately blame themselves for less-than-optimal workplace interactions.
However, the truth is that your boss should be organising the workplace to suit all different types of employees, not just extroverts.
If you feel comfortable and believe it is appropriate, perhaps consider emailing your boss or your HR manager one of the many books or articles on how to relate to introverted employees.
If you are intimidated by the prospect of talking one-on-one with your manager, consider banding with the other office introverts to take a respectful stand.
Among other things, you might let your boss know that introverts need more time to think over questions or projects before responding; that they need the freedom to recharge alone; and that they’d prefer to be given written, aural, or analytical tasks over oral presentations or networking responsibilities.
4. Own your talents
Following on from the last tip - own your introversion as best you can and show your boss just how much the business benefits from it.
Extroverts may be able to talk the talk, but you can write, strategise, and observe as well as the best of them - so if opting out of office chat and immersing yourself in independent work is what makes your life easier, then do that – you will shine in your own quiet way and enjoy your work much more!
Summary
Thanks Harper, these tips seem great and from the heart.
The main thing we all need to remember (both managers and employees) that everyone is different and everyone works differently.
What works for and motivates one individual does not necessarily do the same for someone else.
If you are really struggling, then it’s important to take the time to speak to your Manager about your issues.
Want more tips on overcoming these workplace bothers? Check out these blogs:
- 10 Networking Tips for Shy Professionals
- 3 Easy Ways to Make Yourself Look More Confident
- 5 Ways to Master Small Talk
If it’s not affecting your working (or personal) life then don’t worry about it in the first place!
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