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People who consider themselves to have a quiet personality or a tendency towards introversion can find the idea of job searches particularly daunting. Often, these individuals aren’t as comfortable selling themselves and may be put off by the idea of interacting with larger groups. At times, even participating in small talk may seem like a gargantuan task, making it harder to forge the kinds of connections one may need to facilitate a job search.

However, there are methods that can help even the shyest, most introverted, quiet personalities achieve success when looking for a new position. So, if the above description sounds like you, here are some tips for your job search.

Reach Out Online

If you aren’t sure you will make the best impression when you’re trying to expand or connect with your network, consider reaching out online instead of in-person. Often, it can feel easier to make an introduction or inquire about positions over email or social networks like LinkedIn if you tend to be an introvert, as you can review what you’re going to say in advance and don’t have to participate in a lively back-and-forth.

While communicating online can be part of your strategy, it should not replace every face-to-face interaction. However, it can make it easier to lay some groundwork in advance of a meeting, helping you connect with others in a more comfortable fashion.

Manage In-Person Interactions

When it comes time to have a meeting with a member of your network or someone who can help you find a new position, it can be beneficial to make the arrangements yourself. This allows you to have some control over the number of people who will be present and gives you a chance to select a location in which you are comfortable.

Lunch meetings and one-on-one conversations at coffee shops may feel less challenging1. Plus, they may decrease the sense of formality when the venue is somewhat casual, helping to put you at ease before you begin.

Practice, Practice, Practice

In some cases, you won’t be able to control all of the facets of these interactions. For example, career fairs can be great resources, but often require you to deal with crowds and meet a large number of people throughout the event. When this occurs, practice is really your best friend.

By developing a routine of what you’ll discuss and how you will track who you meet along the way, you can increase your comfort level. Similar to interviewing, rehearsing a few important points2 and planning questions in advance can give you something to default to if you feel at a loss for words. Additionally, a system for collecting contact information, such as taking notes or scanning business cards into your smartphone, can make it easier to coordinate follow up later on.

Work with a Staffing Firm

Sometimes, the simplest way for quiet personalities to overcome some of the obstacles in their job search is to work with recruiters at a local staffing firm. Often, these professionals have strong connections in the local community, allowing their network to work for your benefit. Further, they can help you select an opportunity that suits your preferences, ensuring you’ll be comfortable when you begin working in a new position.

If you are looking for a job opportunity, the team at Employ Partners can connect you with some of the area’s top companies. Contact a top staffing agency in Atlanta to see how our services can benefit you and your job search today.

1 – https://www.cio.com/article/2381488/careers-staffing/10-job-search-tips-for-introverts.html

2 – https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/career-transitions/201005/ten-tips-the-shy-job-seeker

 

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