the silent observer every time, it’s okay to introduce yourself, make conversation and ask questions. Your voice is valuable and it deserves to be heard.
Find a champion in the room
Having someone champion for you, or speak up for you, is a blessing when used in moderation. It’s best to find your own voice and know how to reclaim the conversation when someone else attempts to overpower your voice. However, finding one or a couple of champions in your workspace or otherwise helps when your own voice just can’t muster the strength to fight. Just remember to practice making it louder by strengthening your conversation and taking less BS. Being introverted does not equate to being weak.
The meeting is not the be all end all
Use small settings with your coworkers or potential audience as a segue into a more involved conversation that can be had on your terms. Something that was said in a larger group could opening of the dialogue between you and others on a smaller scale. You don’t have to completely get rid of the introverted you, just modify so that you’re not crippling yourself and blocking opportunity.
Erika Pope, by day, is a Global Brand and Product Development Manager for five major brands within the beauty industry, including Aunt Jackie’s Curls and Coils. She is responsible for social media, public relations, new product manifestation, packaging, retail distribution and retention, and trade-show management.
By night, her focus is on empowering women. She is on a mission to uplift and create opportunity for minority women to win! She believes women who are empowered are not to be underestimated. “When women have the strength and the support needed they can achieve the unthinkable.” Erika, is ready to take her competitive, reliable and sassy attitude on the road to inspire women to be the boss of their life and make major Boss Moves, unapologetically.
Follow Erika @TheRealMrsPope and read more on my blog at www.ErikaPope.com