OVERCOMING SHYNESS AT WORKPLACE

Shyness according to English dictionary refers to the quality of being shy; a fear of social interactions, and, or the state of being standoffish. Shyness can be in form of hereditary traits, just as we have introverts’ personalities. It can also be a personal attribute chosen or preferred by an individual. Shy people are often seen as introverts even though there are some numbers of people who are extroverted but find it difficult to communicate freely due to the nature of their environment or people.

In a working environment, communication is very essential as it helps to build interpersonal relationship amongst employees. Also, there are situations whereby individual ideas or contributions in terms of opinions are needed, mostly in business dealings. An excellent communication skills and ability to initiate conversations are vital requirements needed to strive in a working environment. It is no doubt that an individual will find it difficult to communicate seamlessly, as a result of high level of shyness, leading to several setbacks at his/her workplace. Most common of this instance being a form of side-lining during opinion gathering.
 
Communication is very crucial for business growth. Employees who are very outspoken, and with great sense of humour and ability to initiate and maintain a steady conversation flow are necessary in business, especially in sales, customer relationship, and human resources (HR) aspects as these sections of business has a greater deal to do with communication. Hence, a shy person finds it difficult to excel on their job
 
Overcoming shyness in a work place has a lot to do with the concerned individual as this trait has lot to do with personality. Therefore, there are some proven steps that can be employed in overcoming shyness, particularly, as it relates to working environment. Some of these steps include;

• Determining the root cause of the shyness
• Asking questions (to enhance team bonding)
• After work activities (e.g. joining a group),
• Building synergy amongst co-working colleagues.

 
Companies and other corporate organizations are often advised to provide a working platform that would promote team bonding. Platforms like team gaming sessions, employees’ outdoor picnics, team bonding projects, etc. have been proven to help team members bond optimally, especially those who finds it difficult to interact with other due to shyness. In the same vein, shy individuals or employees are also often advised to lookout for, and join team bonding groups, e.g. Toastmasters club, sporting groups, etc., in order to increase their level of bonding with others, and in turn help them at their workplace.

Author

Ademiju James 
Project Manager 
Brave Achievers Incubator Program