After my company's acquisition, I found myself at a corporate table in San Diego, feeling like an imposter. Despite leading the merger effort, I remained silent, overwhelmed by the extroverted energy. Later, in my hotel room, I replayed the meeting, wishing I had spoken up.
As an introvert, I often feel misunderstood in a workplace that values verbal communication. While I've spent years as a trainer and speaker, my introverted nature is often overlooked.
Thanks to Susan Cain's "Quiet," I've come to appreciate my introverted strengths: listening intently, reflecting deeply, and asking thoughtful questions. However, these skills can be challenging in a world dominated by meetings and open-office plans.
Here's how I've learned to thrive as an introvert in a loud workplace:
1. Own Your Strengths:
- Reflect on your unique talents. I realized my strengths in leading change and training were assets, even if they didn't involve constant verbal interaction.
- Embrace your introverted gifts. Listening and asking insightful questions can spark valuable discussions and contribute to a team's success.
2. Focus on Connection:
- Shift your mindset. Instead of worrying about what to say, focus on how you want your audience to feel.
- Connect with others on a deeper level. Building relationships and understanding their perspectives can make conversations more meaningful.
3. Speak Up When It Matters:
- Align your words with your values. Don't feel pressured to speak on every topic. Focus on issues that are truly important to you.
- Be authentic. Your genuine voice is more powerful than trying to mimic extroverted behaviors.
By embracing my introverted nature and leveraging my strengths, I've found a way to thrive in a workplace that often favors extroverts. Remember, your unique perspective is valuable, and your voice deserves to be heard.