The modern work environment can be difficult to deal with for those that are on the introverted side. Open office space, distractions at every corner, and constant talking everywhere are some examples of what goes on in most modern work environments. For those that are more on the extroverted side, all the examples probably do not seem like a big deal. However, to an introverted person, it is a big deal and some might struggle to handle it.
Being on the introverted side myself, I want to share with you some tips on how I cope with the modern workplace setting.
1. Find the Right Balance for You
You have a limited amount of energy within a day. Therefore, it is important for you to make the most out of your energy. Unfortunately, interactions with other people will be draining for you regardless of who and what topics you talk about. Do not be afraid to take a break by stepping out for a few minutes to be by yourself to recharge.
You do not need to completely isolate yourself from everyone else. You just need to make sure you be more selective with what conversations to participate in.
2. Learn to Identify Different Communicate Types
The people that you work with will be a mixture of introverts, extroverts, and ambiverts. Each of them has their own preferred style of communication. You need to identify their preferred style either by observation or asking how they prefer to receive information. Remember to communicate effectively, it is not about how you want to communicate, but how the other person wants to communicate. For example, if you are communicating with an introvert they may prefer text-based communication. While if the person was an extrovert, they may prefer you to talk to them instead.
3. Utilize Written and Verbal Communications
Everyone has their own style of communication and then you have your own. As an introvert, I prefer text-based communication far more than verbal (maybe you do too). When I communicate with someone that prefers verbal communication, what I do is send text-based messages first. Then I would follow up by going to the person and basically re-iterate what is said in the message I sent. To the person it makes more sense hearing it than seeing the message even though both convey the same information.
4. Do Not Always Wait for Your Turn to Speak
As an introvert, we find it natural to wait until it is our turn to speak. The problem is that when you have a conversation going on between extroverted individuals there is no opportunity for you to step in. This results in others thinking you have nothing to contribute.
When you find yourself in a similar situation, you will need to realize that waiting for your turn to speak is not going to happen. You will have to just speak to get your voice in. You probably feel that it is rude, but to an extroverted person, they do not see it as rude.
5. Make Use of Your Innate Strengths
Do not forget about your natural talents that are unique to introverts. Make use of them to get fantastic results. Here are a few of them.
Great Listening Skills
Have you ever been told that you are a great listener? Great listening skill is a natural ability for most introverted individuals. Great listening skill is not easy to come by and if you use it right, you will be having deep and meaningful conversations with people without yourself doing a lot of talking.
Think Before Speaking
Talking between introverts often involves silence in-between because they think before speaking. This can be off-putting to someone that is more extroverted. They are used to people immediately responding, so they might get the wrong idea if there is silence in-between.
To avoid a misunderstanding, you should let the person know that you “are a little slow” in responding then they will understand. Letting the person know can make a big difference because now they know and will probably allow moments of pause for you to speak.
I hope you found this post helpful. If you found this post helpful, share it with others so they can benefit too.
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