Building Relationships with Colleagues as an Introvert

Welcome to the 28th edition of the BE School Newsletter! If you're an introvert looking to master workplace relationships without sacrificing your energy, you’re in the right place.

If you’re new here, welcome to The BE School Newsletter, where I share actionable steps to help you BE (what you aspire to become) before you actually do.

---

I hear you. I am with you completely. This is not easy—but I promise I will get you there.

Building relationships can feel overwhelming—but with the right perspective, you can use your natural strengths as an introvert to create meaningful connections.

Small talk... Meetings that drag on... Feeling utterly drained after a day full of interaction. Sound familiar?

The good news is—you don't need to become someone you're not to connect at work. In fact, your introverted strengths—like active listening and empathy—can be powerful tools for building authentic connections.

Let’s explore 4 practical, research-backed strategies you can use today.

---

1. Use the Power of Written Communication to Build Authority

I know you prefer written communication over verbal exchanges. But I see this as an advantage for you to build relationships at work.

Use your strength in crafting thoughtful, concise emails or messages to connect with colleagues and even leaders in the organization.

A study from the University of Texas highlights that written communication allows more time for reflection and thoughtful responses, making it a great tool for introverts to build relationships without the pressure of on-the-spot replies.

? Advanced Tip: Use written updates, project reports, or proposals as tools to demonstrate your expertise and reliability.

When combined with a follow-up conversation, it can set you apart as someone with depth and strategic thinking.

---

2. Develop “Anchor” Relationships and Use Strategic Networking

Your biggest strength as an introvert is one-on-one conversation. No need to take on everyone at once.

Focus on building a few key relationships—this strategic approach plays to your strengths.

So, build strategic "anchor" relationships with colleagues who are well-connected in the organization.

These "anchors" can help you expand your network in a low-pressure way by introducing you to others when the time is right.

Research from Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management found that introverts excel when they use indirect networking strategies—building deeper connections with fewer people rather than attending large networking events.

? Advanced Tip: Identify a few influential colleagues or mentors who can serve as your advocates.

Building strong relationships with these key individuals will lead to more opportunities to connect with others without forcing yourself into uncomfortable social situations.

---

3. Leverage Asynchronous Collaboration Tools for Relationship-Building

Real-time communication—like brainstorming sessions or spontaneous meetings—can often feel overwhelming.

Fortunately, the rise of asynchronous collaboration tools (e.g., Slack, Teams, or project management software like Asana) allows for more measured, thoughtful responses.

According to research from Harvard Business School, asynchronous tools allow introverts to shine by giving them time to process information, craft insightful responses, and contribute without the pressure of immediate feedback.

? Advanced Tip: Use these tools to initiate project discussions or provide detailed feedback.

This allows you to stay actively engaged in workplace conversations without the constant need for real-time, face-to-face communication.

---

4. Implement “Energy Management” Instead of Time Management

Let other professionals focus on time management—not you. As an introvert, you would benefit more from energy management.

You already know that relationship-building can be draining, especially in environments with frequent social interactions.

Instead of managing your time by simply blocking out hours for social tasks, focus on scheduling interactions during high-energy periods.

A 2023 study from Cornell University highlights how introverts perform better socially and emotionally when they strategically manage their energy rather than strictly adhering to time management principles.

? Advanced Tip: Use techniques like "batching" social activities into high-energy periods and setting aside regular time for recharging.

You can even communicate these preferences to your colleagues, ensuring you're always at your best when you interact.

---

5. Curate Thought Leadership Content to Spark Conversations

Introverts might not enjoy initiating casual conversations in person, but they can use curated content to start deeper conversations.

Share insightful articles, research, or even your own thoughts on key industry trends through email or LinkedIn.

According to Forbes, becoming known as a resource for valuable information can elevate your position in the workplace without needing to rely on high-pressure, in-person conversations.

Sharing thought-provoking material invites colleagues to engage in discussions that align with your interests and strengths.

? Advanced Tip: Share content on industry-related topics or issues that colleagues are dealing with.

Follow up with thoughtful questions or a short commentary to engage others and showcase your expertise.

---

6. Be a Connector in the Background

You’re a great observer—and that’s your superpower! Leverage it by becoming a connector—introduce colleagues who may benefit from knowing each other.

Plus, it doesn't really matter if you aren’t directly involved in the relationship.

You can create goodwill by connecting people behind the scenes, leading to long-term relational capital.

A 2017 study from the University of Michigan found that employees who act as connectors between different teams or individuals are seen as more influential, even if they aren't the most vocal.

? Advanced Tip: Pay attention to the needs, skills, and goals of your colleagues, and look for opportunities to make introductions.

When you facilitate valuable connections, others will naturally remember and appreciate your role, even if you're not always in the spotlight.

---

Closing Thoughts

Introversion isn’t a barrier—it’s your secret weapon for building meaningful, authentic connections.

By focusing on strategic, one-on-one interactions and managing your energy, you can create a sustainable network that works for you.

Ready to dive deeper into these strategies?

Join my free webinar and learn how to thrive in the workplace as an introvert.

DM - 'Relationships" to join the waitlist.