No matter what the consensus is, no matter how many confident, outgoing people you appear to be surrounded by, the vast majority of us are introverts by nature. That chap at the networking meetings who’s always taking centre stage and cracking jokes? Yep, he’s an introvert. The lady who is always surrounded by avid listeners and admirers at social gatherings? She’s an introvert too. Some people are just better at hiding it than others. Bluster, over-verbosity and over-confidence are often coping mechanisms to cover the lack of self-confidence which is at the heart of the issue, as numerous studies can attest.
Not that there’s anything wrong with being an introvert, of course. Far from it. It’s just not always advantageous in business, as many of us will agree. If we had been just a little more extroverted would we have landed that big contract last year? Would we have had the nerve to have confronted the supplier or pitched for more work? Does our communication approach need work?
Now, this piece is coming from a Managed Learning Service, so it would be odd if we didn’t mention that there are any number of courses and training solutions that can help the Introvert become more confident in business situations (and of course you can get in contact to find out more), but as this is being written on World Kindness Day (November 13th) why not just give some helpful tips and tricks without trying to upsellJ?
Here are a few ideas that could help your communication:
- Try not to speak more than you need
Communication tip, you don’t need to be rambling on incessantly at work in order to be recognized – how exhausting is that concept? Join in when you have something to say, not just for the sake of it.
- Being Assertive
Blimey – there’s a terrifying thought, but if you can take just one assertive, professional action per day it will be a great start, and we’re all in favour of ‘starts’ aren’t we. So chase that invoice, follow up on the call, have the conversation you’ve been dreading with that annoying staff member. Once a day. That’ll do.
- You don’t have to be a passive listener
Everyone loves a good listener and it’s an admirable quality for all of us. But a passive listener listens without interaction – an active listener responds and joins in – not necessarily with advice (which can be frankly annoying) but at least with responses that show you are involved, verbal or otherwise.
- Believe in yourself
You need to believe that there is value in your contributions to the conversations. Naturally, this may be easier said than done, but in general the worst thing that can happen is that someone will disagree with your ideas. They will certainly appreciate that you have ideas in the first place. Be brave.
- Be Ready
Most of us aren’t comfortable with speaking in front of groups, but if you do have a big meeting prepare yourself in advance. If there’s an agenda get hold of a copy and familiarise yourself. If you need to, make notes.
Oh – and have a look at this blog too. You may find it helpful.
Contact me if you’d like to chat through your training and learning opportunities – email blake.henegan@optimuslearningservices.com or call 0845 519 7408
