Working in an open-concept office can be a challenging environment especially for introverts as the constant social interactions and engagements can be very draining and daunting. Introverts generally excel in a quiet workplace, which increases their productivity. If you find yourself working in a highly stimulating environment, it is not the end of the line. Remember that being an introvert means that you have the traits to be persistent, focused, and motivated. Utilise those traits to adapt to your work environment and you will have a better working life. Here are some suggestions on how to adapt to your workplace as an introvert.
1) Make a Good Impression on The First Day at Work
Reaching the office early will help you get use to the new environment. Familiarising with the office layout and getting to meet your colleagues who arrive early is a good way to reduce anxiety and not feel overwhelmed at work. Be observant with the social cues and the work culture, always keep in mind that you are here to offer your skill and to contribute to the team and the company. If you have any input, suggestions, or feedback feel free to share them with your colleagues.
Even as an introvert, you will need to build your presence within the organisation too. Believe it or not; your participation and opinion matters in the company. Take up the offer from your boss and colleagues if they invite you to join them for lunch or dinner. Choose to be proactive by mingling and networking with everyone at work.
2) Manage Your Time Well
To thrive in a working environment, maintaining your composure as an approachable and affable person is essential. It can just be a brief conversation to catch up amongst your colleagues or just a simple greeting to brighten up one’s day. Building relationships at the office will help you get used to small talks and making your daily interactions less stressful too. Give yourself some personal time as well if you want to concentrate on your work. Immerse yourself into your tasks by putting on your headphones to lessen the distractions around you.
3) Give Yourself a Pat on The Back
You maybe shy sharing your accomplishments but do make sure your superiors and team take notice of your efforts. Ensure that no one else is taking credit over what you have done and achieved. Make subtle mentions to your boss by talking to him or her about your contributions. Take for instance, you managed to get in contact with a couple of suppliers in the market to produce products for the company. Share that type of information with them at their convenience. Share your engagements and display it whilst not overdoing it, to avoid sounding smug.
4) Managing Stress at Work
As an introvert, you may find yourself showing signs of withdrawal the moment you are overwhelmed or burdened with stress at work. In an unresolved situation, you will start to develop unintentional behaviour such as making rash decisions. Take your time to reflect and direct your thoughts, ideas, and feelings. Giving yourself short breaks will also help you to be more productive instead of being frantic. Take a break by going for a short walk or do quick exercises if you’re going to spend much of your time at work. A short period of time out can make a huge difference in your ability to perform at work.
5) Find a Work Buddy
Since one-on-one interaction is preferred by introverts, why not ask around and collaborate with a dependable colleague. Your connection with a co-worker will help you go through anxiety-inducing situations at work. Try not to limit yourself to a single person though, instead develop more connections with the rest of your team too.
6) Making Opportunities on Your Own
Communication is part of the foundation to establish meaningful connections towards a successful career. Even a simple act like sending follow-up emails to your clients and prospects will help build rapport. Plan ahead and show interest about the possibility of a career advancement at work and you might just find yourself rewarded for taking a brave step forward.
7) Don’t Pretend to Be Someone You are Not
Pretending to be someone you are not will not get you very far in your career. Having imposter syndrome and faking your own personality also means you are not exercising your true strengths. Keeping a facade will constantly put you at the edge of your seat and you’ll find yourself having to act like you know what you are doing yet you don’t. It’s an exhausting place to be and you shouldn’t have to be fake in order to make it work in your workplace.
8) Just Be Yourself
If you ever find yourself in a situation where you are judged for being introverted by nature, just stand your ground and be confident with who you are. Feeling intimidated can turn your shyness as the ultimate weakness but don’t let it. Your colleagues will respect and look up to you once you embrace your own personality as an introvert.
We hope these handy tips will help you adapt with confidence and passion to strive for the best!
This article was written by Ng You Jing, a writer at Jobstore.com, the leading job portal in Malaysia.
