5 Career Tips for Introverts in IT - Introvert Whisperer

Introvert Whisperer / 5 Career Tips for Introverts in IT - Introvert Whisperer 5 Career Tips for Introverts in IT Kayla Matthews May 7, 2018 Career Development No responses Go to top There are many people with savvy and brilliance in the IT field, though they might find themselves inhibited in their careers and networking by introverted tendencies. Not everyone can exude charisma and extroverted tendencies spontaneously, which is entirely OK. Introverts should not be expected to transform their personality for a job, but there are some tips they can heed to elevate their standing in the IT field better. 1. Work to Exude Confidence Extroverts tend to receive more credit than introverts often because they tend to be better at garnering attention. Without becoming an extrovert, however, there are several ways that introverts can make their presence known. Specifically, eye contact, straight posture and a head held high are signs of confidence that can go a long way. Research shows that non-verbal communication plays a significant role in how people perceive you. As a result, doing some seemingly minor things like smiling more can help introverts appear more social and willing to engage. Another benefit is that by smiling and acting in a better mood, you very well may become in a better mood, which has ample health benefits. In a field like IT, where many professionals spend ample time in front of the computers, coworkers will take notice when someone uses their time away from the screen to show confidence and amiability. 2. Articulate Your Knowledge Introverts sometimes make the mistake of speaking too quickly, in fear that the substance of their words does not warrant additional time. Get out of that mentality and work on paying attention to your voices tone, articulation and tempo. Although words are only a portion of our communication with the world and co-workers, being able to relay words without rushing them is a skill that requires practice. Fortunately, introverts can join organizations such as Toastmasters to practice speaking in front of an audience. They will aid in finding the perfect balance in your tone and general articulation. Even if an IT professional does not have to speak in front of large audiences now, the skill is useful for conversations in general. Down the line, they may receive an invitation to host a TED talk, as many IT professionals have in the past. In that case, being able to articulate your knowledge is extremely useful. 3. Become a Temporary Introvert Although expecting an introvert to become an extrovert in every facet of life is unrealistic, introverts are capable of at least temporarily assuming some extroverted aspects. Even if its just for a few minutes a day, practice more socially extroverted tendencies, like engaging in office conversations and asking coworkers questions about their weekend or work at hand. No one is asking that you bug people incessantly with banter â€" since there are aspects of extroversion and introversion that are too much â€" though devoting at least a few minutes to extroversion can be beneficial in cultivating relationships. IT professionals can view this period of temporary introversion as a nice reprieve from isolation in front of a monitor. Work breaks, after all, have been proven beneficial to health. Next time, make your break and opportunity to engage with others, even if briefly. 4. Network with Industry Experts Even if you and your coworkers have different interests, there is at least one thing you have in common: the desire to share IT information. This topic provides a great way for introverts to become more engaged with their co-workers while also learning from others’ experiences. Whether youre venting about relatable IT research stories or discussing ways to improve a trending skill, you can boost your career by simply listening to professionals’ in the field. 5. Participate in Company and Industry Events The IT field is ripe with industry events, where you can parlay your passion for IT and other topics into networking opportunities. Computer science extends beyond a single industry, making the eclectic nature of IT a great one for honing in on specific topics and finding relationships as a result. Even introverted individuals can light up upon learning something new about a hobby or passion, an experience that you can have with others as well. Although introversion can prove to be an obstacle when trying to advance your career in IT, there are a variety of opportunities that enable you to exude confidence and network with savvy. Go to top Do you know what your next career step is?  Many people don’t. I want to help you accelerate your career by connecting you with your Free Instant Access to my eBook on how to construct your Career SMART Goals â€" that will help you put together your actions and keep you accountable. Get your copy now and start your action plan today! Brought to you by Dorothy Tannahill-Moran â€" dedicated to unleashing your professional potential. Introvert Whisperer