11 Tips for Starting a New Job as an Introvert
When you start a new job, it can be tricky to anticipate what to expect. The first couple of weeks can feel like an intense period of adjustment as you learn the rhythms of your new workplace and figure out how best to fit into them. But as an introvert, this can be even more stressful than usual.
Thankfully, there are some steps you can take before starting a new job that will help make things easier when it comes time to walking through those doors on day one. And before you know it, you’ll be thriving in your new workplace setting.
1. Take time to meet and get to know your new coworkers.
You do not want to be the person who comes in and immediately shuts down. Don't let nerves dictate how you approach your new colleagues.
It's okay to take some time getting comfortable with people, but don't spend so much time feeling uncomfortable that you don't make any connections.
You'll also risk alienating yourself from the team if they feel like they can't approach you because of how aloof you may seem at first.
2. Be patient and give yourself time to adjust.
Give yourself time to adjust, as it will take time for both your brain and body to get used to being in a new position. Also, take care of yourself by taking breaks throughout each day. Even small periods of quiet or solitude can make all of the difference in your overall energy levels.
You may also need extra breaks after meetings or presentations because these types of events can be draining for introverts.
3. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
As an introvert, you may be considerably more comfortable doing things yourself. But don’t be afraid to ask for help—there are going to be loads of people who want to help you succeed at your new job.
An example of this is asking your boss or colleagues for help with projects and tasks. Introverts tend to have higher standards when it comes to the quality of their work, so don’t hesitate to ask for feedback on a project before submitting it for review.
You can also rely on other employees in your department as sounding boards during meetings and discussions about proposed ideas or changes in direction for the company. And if you're struggling with something that's outside of your expertise, don't be afraid to reach out. Your colleagues will likely be happy to lend a hand if they can offer assistance from their own area of expertise.
4. Find your support group.
To find your internal support group, look for people who are either similar to you or share your interests. If this is your first job after college, find a group of people who have been active in the workforce for a while and can offer their wisdom.
Having even just one person that you know you can rely on in the workplace can transform the experience. Introverts are independent people by nature but also value deep connections with a few people. If you are able to find someone at your new job that you can comfortably connect with, do so.
5. Do the things you know how to do well rather than stressing out over the things that don't come naturally.
One of the most common mistakes introverts make when starting a new job is trying to do too much at once.
Having perfectionist tendencies is common for introverts, and this can make starting a new position exceptionally challenging. Although you may be tempted to try to master everything at once, try to resist.
Simply focus on the things you know how to do well, and be patient with yourself as you learn what comes naturally over time.
6. Take notes on what you learn.
Make sure you take notes on what you learn during meetings. This will help you remember what each topic is and how it relates to the larger picture of the meeting.
It can also be useful if there are any questions that you want to ask later, which will help show your interest in the work. If possible, use a notebook or an app so that it's easy for you to refer back to later.
7. Embrace small talk, even if it's not your thing.
Although small talk is draining for introverts, it may help ease some of the tension you feel as you work through your first few days or weeks at the new job. Some tips to make small talk bearable are to keep it positive.
Avoid negative or controversial topics, especially if you don't know the person well. Also, show interest in others' interests. Try asking questions about what your coworker does outside of work or learning about their family/hobbies/etc., as it will help them feel more comfortable around you as well.
Finally, think about what comes next. If there's something that needs to happen after the conversation ends (such as a meeting), make sure that's clear, so no one feels uncomfortable or rushed by your interaction with them.
8. Ask thoughtful questions during meetings.
When it comes to meetings, introverts have an advantage: we naturally pay a lot of attention. But that doesn't mean we should be keeping quiet.
Meetings are a great place for introverts to practice asking questions that will help them understand the mission of the company and how our work fits into that. Introverts love to learn and challenge themselves, so this is the perfect opportunity to accomplish this.
9. Read a lot before you start the job so that you feel prepared.
The first step to beginning your new job is to read, study, and learn as much as possible about the company. If you prepare before starting the job, it will be easier for you to adjust and make a good impression on everyone.
You'll also want to familiarize yourself with any policies or procedures that might affect how often breaks are taken during work hours. Breaks are crucial for introverts, especially when working in a physical office.
10. Figure out what makes you feel comfortable and calm, and have those things with you at all times.
A soothing drink or snack can be a lifesaver when you need to take a few minutes for yourself, get re-centered, and then come back ready to go again.
Practice self-care regularly. Take breaks throughout the day to do something that gives you energy—whether it’s taking a walk outside or listening to music while doing some deep breathing exercises.
11. Be sure to advocate for yourself.
If someone upsets you or does something that makes you uncomfortable, let them know in a way that feels safe and comfortable for both of you.
Remember that everyone has different work styles and personalities, so not everyone will be compatible, and that’s okay. But there’s no reason why anyone should feel unsafe or uncomfortable at their job.
Conclusion
If you find yourself struggling with your new job or if you’re just not sure how to start off on the right foot, it can be helpful to take the time to get acclimated and learn the ropes before diving in headfirst.
It may feel like a lot of pressure at first, but don’t let that discourage you from pursuing your dreams—take it slow and steady, and before long, things will come naturally.