Embracing Your Quiet Strengths

Yes, you make an impact too...

"Your introversion does not need to be cured. Variety is the spice of life."

This quote resonated with me deeply as I reflected on my journey as an introverted administrative professional. Like many of you, I've gone back and forth with the question:

How can we, as quiet achievers, position ourselves for success in this so called ever-evolving role?

Pre-pandemic, I found myself stagnant in my role as an Assistant. Complacent with good performance reviews, I was reluctant to stretch beyond my comfort zone, I mean what was the reason? no one was asking me to? Sound familiar?

The need for change wasn't apparent – until it was.

After reading The World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report- 2023 I had a bit of a wake-up call. It listed "Administrative and Executive Secretaries" (AKA us) among the fastest declining jobs, it also highlighted a growing demand for skills like analytical thinking, creativity, leadership, and technological proficiency. For optimists like you and I, I didn't read this as a threat – but more of an opportunity, even with an introverted character reminder chatting away in my ear.

How do we, as introverted administrative professionals, leverage these opportunities?

The answer I found to be most useful was in understanding and embracing our unique strengths.

As someone wisely said-

"assuming that all introverts are shy is like assuming that hot countries never experience rain!" We bring a wealth of qualities to the table:

So let me point out some of your amazing introverted strengths and inspire you to lean into these a little bit more, so you are not running away from opportunities and the spotlight, finding comfort in your "introverted" wall to hide behind:

??Laser focused- We like to dive deep into complex problems over having superficial chit-chat (typically).

??Thoughtful communication- Our tendency to think things through before speaking often leads to insightful contributions made.

??Attention to detail- We notice nuances others might overlook while giving lots of thought and consideration to others.

??Meaningful connections- We excel at forming deep, one-on-one relationships. That's not to say others can't or don't, but typically we prefer this. Do you shy away from big networking events for fear of it all being a bit too much? I did too once.

??Active listening- In a society (or workplace) of constant chatter and distractions, our ability to truly listen is invaluable. Try speaking up with your thoughts, suggestions or improvements after you have been listening in on that meeting - I know you want to and have some amazing ideas - it's time to share at least one of them next time this happens.

??What's next.....

Stepping into spotlights and understanding your personal brand

You already have the skills, and many more than just the few I had space for above but have you made them visible and are you leveraging them?

This is where personal branding comes into play.

As Gary Vaynerchuk puts it...

"Your personal brand is your reputation. And your reputation in perpetuity is the foundation of your career."

Initially, I ran from the idea of personal branding. (Wasn't that just showing off and just for business owners and extroverts)? NO....

I've since reframed my thinking to this...

"It's not about look at me, but rather look at what I can do for you."

This shift in my mindset and the connection with this statement made building my brand feel natural and purposeful and much easier than I initially thought it would be.

So, how can we, as introverted administrative professionals, step into the spotlight without feeling overwhelmed and bolting away from it?

Here are some strategies and reasons I've found useful as an introvert that I want to share with you

??Define your unique value proposition: What sets you apart? Identify your areas of expertise or interest and make them known.

??Quantify your impact: Instead of saying "I'm good at organizing," try "I reduced scheduling conflicts by 40%."

??Leverage written communication: If public speaking at networking events isn't your forte (I've yet to master it) then shine through with your emails, reports, or even LinkedIn articles.

??Find networking that works for you: Quality connections trump quantity in my opinion. Focus on meaningful, one-on-one interactions. I use the 3-2-1 approach. Say hello to 3 people, speak to 2 people in depth and follow up with 1 after the event.

??Upskill strategically: Develop the future-focused skills highlighted in the WEF report. Growth and promotion are for the quiet ones also.

What did I wish I had heard earlier on in my career?

Don't let anyone talk down on your personality or make you feel like you are missing out on an event. Network when you feel charged, there's always a next event coming up.

Our way of recharging and handling issues might differ from extroverts, and that's perfectly fine. Own your difference!

Introverts bring as much to the world as extroverts do, they simply do it in a calmer, quieter way. In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, in a gentle way, you can shake the world.'

So, are you ready to embrace your strengths and step into the spotlight – in your own unique way?

The administrate profession and organisations alike need your thoughtful brilliance now more than ever.

You've got this... and If I can do it, I know you can too!

P.S. Every time you showcase your skills, even if it feels uncomfortable, you're not just advancing your own career – you're "paving the way" for other introverted admins to shine. How's that for making an impact???

Let me know in the comments or via a DM what holds you back or what strategies have helped you embrace your introverted strength.

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I'm Jodie Mears, a full-time C-Suite EA passionate about elevating the admin profession:

*Co-host of The Crodie Files Podcast

*Speaker & panellist at industry events, with knowledge in networking, personal branding and being a strategic assistant

*Mentor & coach for aspiring and established administrative assistants

*Creator of practical & relatable content to boost your career

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