Work and The Introvert: How Introverts Can Excel in the Work World

If you’re an introvert, you know how difficult certain social situations can be, especially in the office. Sometimes you just want to make it through the day without having to bump into someone and partake in awkward small talk.

It can feel like today’s work world is designed to oust as many introverts as possible, but that cannot be further from the truth. Businesses have as much to gain from introverts as they do extroverts, with each disposition offering advantages that the other cannot. Although extroverts have the upperhand on people skills, there are things introverts can do that’ll help them thrive in the office.

Find the Right Job for You
Before doing anything, research the different kinds of jobs you would want to apply for, making job hunting much simpler. Although it’s ultimately your decision which career you choose, there are some jobs that better suit the personality and strengths of introverts. Some of these positions include:

Social Media Manager: Introverts truly stand out in online socializing. Comments and replies can be thoroughly mulled over, relieving much of the pressure of forming an immediate response. Social media managers are in charge of engaging followers and creating and scheduling a company’s promotional content.
Graphic Designer: Graphic design is a great career for artistic introverts. With the possibility of working from home, it’s an introvert’s dream come true. Client discussions can occur over email, but in-person meetings and phone calls may be required as well.
Market Research Analyst: As a market research analyst, you must find and make sense of data to form predictions on how well a product or service will do. However, a business degree is is handy if you wish to truly go far in the industry. Getting a higher education can also help introverts develop important social skills and learn how to communicate with people more effectively.

The Interview
Interviews are one of the top things introverts couldn’t care less for. Not only are you the center of attention, but all your responses must sound educated and natural. It’s already hard talking to people without the added pressure of a job on the line.

One of the best things you can do to give yourself a better shot of getting accepted is researching the company. By seeing what their values are and what the position entails, you can guess what kind of questions will be asked. Write a list of possible questions and answers and practice with a partner so you can get the tone and timing right.

It’s also advised you know where you’re going for the interview and drive to the location a couple times to familiarize yourself with which routes to take and how much time you need to give yourself. Just as important is picking out the clothes you will wear. When you finally meet your interviewer, be prepared for some small talk.

This is the time to get to know each other, so come prepared with questions of your own. Lastly, make sure to bring notes. By having information ready for your perusal, it makes the thought of forgetting something much less scarier.

Be Heard
Being heard is a problem many introverts face. However, by not speaking up, you’re actually doing your company a disservice since you have valuable insights and input that can greatly benefit the business you’re in. You cannot be as influential as you could be if you are constantly being interrupted.

The first thing you need to do is speak louder. People will not understand what you have to say if they can’t actually hear you. It also helps if you come prepared with notes on topics you wish to discuss. This especially comes in handy when you’re asking for a raise. Just like in an interview, you need to do your research.

First, you need to determine if the company you work for is financially healthy enough to provide a raise to begin with. If so, you need to be prepared with evidence on your good standing with the company. Find out whether the person you’re asking has a more objective or subjective view on what makes a good worker and provide the necessary information. Lastly, as with anything, practice what you’re going to say before the meeting.

Photo by Igor Ovsyannykov