Introverts: Shine At Work ??

Note from Yann:?? Hey readers! I’m Yann A?tBachir . Each week, I share practical tips to help you grow in your career.

Today's article, the 21st in this series, is both short and late.

My excuse: I've been hard at work behind the scenes on a new project. Stay tuned - I'll share soon!

I'm sharing a list of five tips I have already share with some professional I'm mentoring.

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As a mentor to new managers who are introverts, I always say: Stay true to yourself! ??

You don't need to act like an extrovert. Use your introvert superpowers instead.

However, the workplace is not fair, so it's crucial for even the quiet ones to make sure they're seen and their hard work gets noticed.

Here are five easy tips I often share to help introverts shine without changing who they are. ??

Tip 1. Speak Up Early, Speak Up Often ??

Meetings can be an introvert's nightmare, but they're also golden opportunities to showcase your expertise. Stop waiting for the “right moment” to jump in. The more you wait, the harder to interject.

Challenge yourself to be one of the first three people to contribute in a meeting. It doesn't have to be a groundbreaking idea that blow people away.

My tip: A simple question or observation can get the ball rolling.

Try this: "I've been thinking about our project timeline. Could we discuss the potential impact of [specific factor] on our deadlines?"

Tip 2. Quality Over Quantity: Make Your Words Count ??

Remember, you don't need to be the loudest voice in the room to be the most impactful. Focus on making meaningful contributions that add value to the conversation.

My tip: Build on a colleague’s point.

Try this: "Building on what Tom said, I've noticed a trend in our data that might support her point. Would it be helpful if I shared that analysis?"

Tip 3. Ditch the Self-Doubt Dialogue ??

We've all been guilty of undermining our own ideas. But guess what? Your thoughts are valuable, and it's time to present them that way!

Use an assertive language and avoid seld-disqualifiers.

By framing your contributions positively and confidently, you encourage others to respect your ideas and acknowledge your expertise.

Instead of: "This might be a stupid idea, but..."

Try this: "An alternative approach that might address our current challenges is ..."

Tip 4. Embrace Async Communication (Secret Weapon ??)

Real-time conversation could be challenging for you.

As an introvert, you likely excel at thoughtful, written communication.

Use this to your advantage!

Create a monthly newsletter highlighting your team's achievements, or follow up on meetings with well-crafted emails summarizing key points and next steps.

Try this: "After reflecting on our brainstorming session, I've outlined three potential strategies that align with our goals. I've attached a brief analysis of each for your consideration."

Tip 5. Gratitude: Your Humble Brag Shortcut ??♀?

You struggle in between humility and desire of visibility.

Expressing genuine appreciation is a great way to highlight your contributions without feeling like you're boasting.

It's also a fantastic leadership quality that builds strong team relationships.

Try this: "I'm grateful for the opportunity to lead the product launch. Our team's hard work and creativity made it possible to exceed our targets by 20%."

Bonus: The Power of One-on-One Connections ??

While large group settings might drain your energy, you probably shine in more intimate conversations.

Leverage this strength by scheduling regular one-on-ones with your manager, peers, stakeholders and team members.

Look, being a leader isn't about putting on a mask or pretending to be someone else.

It's about figuring out what makes you tick and using those quirks to your advantage.

Try out these tips and you might be surprised at how much easier it becomes to get noticed, level up your leadership game, and navigate the office minefield.

The best is that you get to do it all without losing what makes you, well, you. ˉ\_(ツ)_/ˉ

Time to stop hiding in the shadows and start owning your quiet talents.

You never know - your steady, thoughtful approach might just flip the workplace script.

So chin up, introvert. Your time to shine is now, no megaphone required. ??

Note from Yann: ?? Hey folks! Thanks for reading. It was the 19h edition of the Simple Leader's Playbook.

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