Surviving Social Overload: Strategies for Introverts in Meetings
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Understanding the Dread of Meetings
Are you one of those individuals who feels a wave of anxiety whenever a meeting invitation lands in your inbox? Whether it’s a brief catch-up, a team brainstorming session, or a dreaded all-hands meeting, the prospect of social interaction can be daunting, especially for introverts.
As a PhD scholar, I find myself attending numerous meetings each week—scheduled or spontaneous. From discussions on various topics to updates and collaboration sessions, these gatherings are unavoidable. Navigating these interactions can be particularly challenging for introverts, as it often involves finding the right moment to speak up or voice a concern. Over time, however, I’ve learned to manage these situations more effectively and without feeling overwhelmed.
Tips for Navigating Meetings
I’m here to share some practical and straightforward strategies that can help you maneuver through meetings with ease—and perhaps even find enjoyment in them!
Prepare Thoroughly
The more you prepare, the more assured you’ll feel. Before each meeting, take a moment to review the agenda and jot down key points. This preparation allows you to articulate your thoughts confidently when it’s your turn to speak.
Choose Your Moment Wisely
You don’t need to be the first or loudest voice in the room. Taking a moment to listen and gather your thoughts can lead to more impactful contributions. If jumping into the conversation feels daunting, consider prefacing your comments with, “I have a quick thought on this…” to ease into the discussion.
Recharge Before and After
Social interactions can quickly drain an introvert's energy. If you anticipate a challenging meeting, plan some quiet time before and after to recharge. Simple activities like a short walk or listening to music can help you reset your mental state.
Utilize Technology
With the rise of virtual meetings, introverts have a unique advantage. Virtual environments can feel less overwhelming, allowing you to use chat functions or reaction buttons to participate without added pressure.
Establish Meeting Boundaries
While you can’t control the duration of every meeting, you can set personal boundaries. If discussions extend too long, it’s perfectly acceptable to suggest revisiting topics in a follow-up meeting or to clarify next steps.
Find a Supportive Colleague
If meetings feel daunting, seek out a colleague you trust. This ally can bolster your confidence by supporting your points and helping you navigate conversations.
Don’t Feel Obligated to Engage Nonstop
Once a meeting concludes, you’re not obligated to continue engaging. If you need space, it’s perfectly acceptable to excuse yourself politely. A simple, “I have another task to wrap up—catch you later!” can help you exit gracefully.
In conclusion, while managing social interactions in meetings can be challenging, it is possible to thrive in this environment. Initially, I found it hard to even be noticed in a meeting. However, as time has passed, I've accepted that meetings are an integral part of my career path, and I’m continually learning to navigate them better. If you have additional tips for managing meeting-related anxiety, I’d love to hear them in the comments.
Happy Meeting!
About the Author
I am a PhD researcher at Deakin University in Melbourne, Australia. A self-proclaimed book lover, Scicomm enthusiast, R fan, and coffee aficionado, I enjoy sharing my experiences. If you'd like to follow my journey, connect with me on Medium, LinkedIn, or Twitter (X).