Offices can be breeding grounds for awkward encounters, leaving individuals feeling unsure of how to navigate short and potentially clumsy conversations. Workplace expert Henna Pryor explains that being able to handle these interactions effectively can actually benefit your career. Many people miss out on promotions or reaching their full potential due to avoiding discomfort, Pryor tells CNBC Make It. Stepping out of your comfort zone can be intimidating, particularly for introverts or Gen Zers who have had limited office experience post-Covid-19. Starting small by engaging in simple conversations with colleagues can help prepare you for more challenging discussions with superiors, Pryor advises.
Pryor recommends four easy tips to enhance your awkwardness endurance. One strategy involves finding allies to support you in social situations. For instance, Pryor recounts an example where a client enlisted trusted individuals to help her engage more actively in meetings. This “awkward army” approach allowed her to feel more comfortable speaking up and seamlessly contribute her perspective to group discussions. Gamifying participation is another technique Pryor suggests, where you can track and celebrate your contributions as a way to build confidence. By prioritizing effort over perfection and noting small wins, you can feel a sense of progress in your social interactions, she says.
Yearly reviews can bring about discomfort, as you have to address past mistakes and highlight achievements without coming across as boastful. Pryor encourages individuals to proactively share their accomplishments with their boss throughout the year, rather than waiting until review time. By setting up an email template to communicate achievements, you can have a record of your progress when it comes time to discuss salary increases. Pryor emphasizes the importance of embracing awkwardness, especially as many workers have struggled with social interactions due to remote and hybrid work arrangements. Making fun of yourself in moments of discomfort can actually make you more relatable, she says, citing Jennifer Lawrence’s graceful response to tripping at the Oscars.
Amidst the shift to remote work during the pandemic, many adults have experienced increased social anxiety and difficulty forming relationships. Pryor acknowledges that even the most confident individuals can feel socially uncomfortable at times. She advises leaning into discomfort and starting small by engaging in everyday interactions, such as keeping your phone in your pocket during elevator rides or making conversation with others in line at the grocery store. It’s important to accept that mistakes will happen and not take yourself too seriously, Pryor suggests. By embracing awkwardness and being open to forming connections with others, you can gradually build your social confidence and navigate professional interactions more effectively.
