The top problems introverts have in their career and how to fix them - Introvert Whisperer

Introvert Whisperer / The top problems introverts have in their career and how to fix them - Introvert Whisperer The top problems introverts have in their career and how to fix them Are you an introvert? Have you struggled with stepping into your career with a sense that you need to be more outgoing, strong-voiced and expressive? It can difficult to navigate the career journey from interview to holding the job, to going after that promotion, if we feel like our core essence which may be that of an introvert is not accepted, supported or desired. So what are the kinds of problems we may face as introverts in a largely extroverted world? Let’s start with what an introvert is An introvert receives their energy from alone time. Contrast this to an extrovert, who gets their energy from being with other people. An introvert recharges with taking space and resting, or doing something away from other people in order to get the energy we need to go out into the world again. Introverts also work best alone, and tend to solve problems by reflecting and going inward. When it comes to working environments that demand social interaction, teamwork, presentations, co-working spaces and lots of communication how can introverts stay true to their nature, whilst not getting lost in the crowd? Below are the common problems introverts face, as well as a different take on how to utilize the essential elements of introversion to turn these seeming ‘weaknesses’ into our strengths. Top Problems #1: Burning out by not taking space This is one of the biggest issues introverts will face; exhaustion from giving out too much energy without recharging in the way that we need. Extroverts are the ones who want to always go out for after-office drinks, or seek out company in lunch breaks, in order to get their energy boost from others. Introverts need to be careful here in knowing their energetic boundaries and figuring out ways in which to take the space to themselves mid-workday, and after work. This could be going to the bathroom simply for quiet space, walking outside and breathing in fresh air, finding a space to have your lunch by yourself, and being ok with saying no to the office social scene. If you feel that it is part of your role and would help to enhance your future prospects to network outside of the office, be sure that you have had ample alone time to feel able to go out at the end of the workday. #2: Anxiety about networking Meeting new people for an introvert can demand quite a lot of energy. This isn’t to say introverts are anti-social, but rather prefer more intimate meetings and communication in order to be present and not get overwhelmed. Networking experiences can be challenging, as they are often with many people in more of a cocktail-party style situation with mingling. The impact it may have on introvert’s career is that they may skip the networking events, and therefore, miss out of potential connection and opportunities. To feel more able to be in this networking space, introverts can use the following tools: Introduce yourself to one person at a time. Don’t worry about having to go up to a group and meeting multiple people at once. Find people who are on their own and approach them then. Start off with a simple “Hi, I’m… I don’t believe we’ve met yet..” If you’re having trouble approaching people, then be sure you are approachable. If you’re on your own and waiting for someone to introduce themselves, then be sure that your body language is open and that you are wearing an expression friendly enough that says ‘it’s safe to approach.’ Give yourself a quota of people you’ll talk to. This will help you to actually put in the effort to meet at least 3 people, and also give you some relief if you limit your number to a maximum amount for example, 6 people. It can help put your mind at ease to have attainable goals. Having more of a preference to speak one-to-one and in intimate settings can also be a strength for introverts in networking settings especially when you gel with others who appreciate this presence in communication too. #3: Talking too much due to nerves Most relevant in the context of interviews, meetings and networking environments. Some introverts can fall into the trap of feeling insecure about looking timid, that they overcompensate by talking way too much in hopes of trying to fill the space so there isn’t awkward silence. Though this can lead to awkward rambling, and can hurt your chances of landing the job, project, deal or just showing your true value as a worker. Instead, think about conversation as like a tennis match. They ask you a question, you ask them a question back and forth. They can then fill the space with words, and also feel heard and spacious to express what they wish to. So ask questions, be ok with waiting a few seconds for someone else to do the talking, and you’ll come across as calm and collected. #4: Not going for the leadership role (even though you want it) Many introverts may think that they’re not cut out for being leaders. Some may actually be wanting to step up, but refrain from doing so because of this very reason. This is a mistake, and a little bit of reframing can really help to show how introverts can be, by nature, great leaders. Leadership is about projecting mature self-confidence, taking control of difficult situations, and an ability to guide others through expressing, sharing and directing. Introverts can have a strong sense of who they are from all the time spent internalizing and reflecting. This can be a strong quality to then project out the character of who they are in a grounded way when they’re in front of an audience. Furthermore, leaders are often solitary figures when they guide, share, plan and express, which bodes well for those who like to work alone. Leaders can also have more freedom in how they work and share, without having to rely on a team-based way of working. Introverts are often more emphatic by nature, with more sensitive to energies and dynamics of social situations. For any leader and facilitator, it can be a great quality to draw from to feel into how people are responding and comprehending the situation. If you’re an introvert and think that perhaps you aren’t suited to leadership, rethink that. You could very well have the potential to be an extremely effective leader. The Takeaway? Don’t forget your strengths. Introverts are diligent, persistent and thoughtful people. They tend to spend time and energy working hard to solve difficult problems, and their sensitive nature can really help them to understand people more. Creative-based roles and leadership positions are great for introverts, though if you’re in any other type of position, know that you can honor what you need and take on some of these tips to work effectively and to enhance your strengths. Author Bio Natalie Fisher is best known for helping professionals land their dream jobs and achieve explosive salary growth (even with little experience) Get Started By Downloading her Free Guide: The Ultimate Situational Interview Q A Guide. Go to top Do you know what your next career step is?  Many people don’t. I want to help you accelerate your career by connecting you with your Free Instant Access to my eBook on how to construct your Career SMART Goals â€" that will help you put together your actions and keep you accountable. Get your copy now and start your action plan today! Brought to you by Dorothy Tannahill-Moran â€" dedicated to unleashing your professional potential. Introvert Whisperer