Almost half of the population identifies as introverts, yet in today’s business world we still value extroverted values more. If you’re an introvert, you most likely enjoy being in small crowds, need time for reflection, and have to be alone to recharge.
In many offices, introverts are seen as being shy and less assertive equating to lower rates of professional success. In reality, introverts can bring a lot of strengths to the office extroverts lack. If you’re an introvert who is having a hard time making yourself heard at the office, here are some easy tips you can use to get your voice out there.
Get Your Point in at the Beginning of Meetings
Many introverts don’t feel comfortable being the first people at a meeting to make a point or voice their opinion. Instead, they wait around trying to get a feel for an opportune time to make their voices heard. The only problem with this strategy is the longer a meeting goes on often the more heated and loud other people get.
This can make it even harder for introverts to insert themselves into conversations. If you find yourself at a meeting, try to be the first one to talk about issues that are important to you. That way you get your voice heard from the very beginning and you aren’t anxious the entire meeting trying to insert yourself into the conversation.
Introverts Need to Come Prepared
When it comes to being an introvert in the office, it’s important that you come to every meeting with a game plan. Preparing and writing down the points you want to make before the meeting will give you time to practice and know what you want to say.
Confidence building is a big part of having your voice heard in the office. Making sure you’re prepared will not only help to build your confidence but ensure that you don’t forget any important topics that you need to bring up and discuss.
Questions Are Key
Sometimes it’s hard for introverts to come up with ideas or responses on the spot, especially in a loud and crowded setting like an office meeting. Most introverts need time for reflection and gathering their thoughts before they’re comfortable sharing ideas.
To avoid the dread of being put on the spot, have some questions on hand that you can pull out at a moment’s notice. Asking questions will not only let the other employees know you’re listening but will make sure you’re actively engaging in the meeting.
As an introvert in the office, it can be difficult at times to make yourself heard. When we think of office meetings we often think of loud extroverts shouting over one another. As introverts, it’s possible to change the way traditional office meetings are run by asserting your personalities into the mix and finding the right strategy for making your voice heard.
For more ways you can create a healthy work environment, check out our latest blog post “Managing Workplace Stress Doesn’t Have To Be Hard. Read These 7 Tips.”