A Shrinking Violet??

Are you a shy person? Do you tend to be a shrinking violet and prefer to be mum most of the time? How can an introvert show his value in a work environment where extroverts are viewed as the 'better-performing' employees?

There are the 'introverts', and there are the 'assertive introverts'. Assertive introverts may not have the power of glib and the engaging persona that extroverts seem to project, but they are equated with being thorough and deliberate.

Now then, how can you make sure that you become an assertive introvert and get 'recognized' in the workplace? Here are some tips:

1. Determine the setting where you are more at ease with and utilize it often. An example is if you prefer small meetings rather than large group presentations, then aim to achieve your specific goal in such settings.

2. Inform your supervisor and peers what your 'style' is. If you tend to not talk too much in meetings because your style is to digest everything being discussed first before reacting at a later time, if you prefer to mull things over and think things through on an in-depth basis before providing a response or making a decision, then let it be known.

3. Take charge of how your peers and supervisors perceive you. Describe who you are, why you are how you are, and stand by who you are. Prove to the rest that your being quiet does not mean that you are dis-engaged, but rather that you are being deliberate.

4. What 'pseudo-extrovert' activities are you most comfortable in? Playing basketball? Then join a work team! Fund-raising activities? Then volunteer for your organization's United Way committee! Show this side of yourself more often.

Always keep in mind....being an introvert does not make you a less effective employee.