Why Introverts Often Struggle with Communication
Introverts are known to regain the energy that they’ve used up in social interactions, when they’re on their own. This means that social interactions can be taxing on introverts.
Whether introverts are interacting with one person or an entire group, it can seem like heavy effort. That’s why, as an introvert, it’s always good to be prepared and keep a few pointers in mind during interactions.
What Forms of Communication Can You Expect?
On a fundamental level, there are a few basic types of communication that can be thought of. These are verbal communication, non-verbal communication, digital communication, group communication, and one-to-one communication.
Although there are other types of communication but most other types would fall under the umbrella ones mentioned above.
The most important thing to remember
This article aims to help introverts better their communication skills but I certainly recommend readers to carry out their own research as well.
This is because, when it comes to communication, every introvert can be different and can have separate preferences.
What would suit one introvert might not suit another.
Additionally, it’s always best to utilize the abundance of resources that are available in print and also those that are available online such as academic articles, blogs, forums, and also YouTube videos.
As you navigate these details, your perception will become clearer and this will help you discover your strengths better and how you could use them to your advantage in each type of communication.
Starting off by reading a book is a great way to start gathering some useful knowledge that will help you in the long run.
It’s not that you MUST follow the advice given in these books but what you must do is pay attention to the advice. Pick up what works for you and leave aside what doesn’t.
Popular books that you’ll find with a google search are “Quiet” and “How To Talk To Anyone”. These books have good reviews online and you could try checking them out.
Now, let’s start off with some advice that could be practically useful. Just try to follow them and see if it works for you. If you can do better, then that’s fantastic. Way to go!
Verbal Communication
The first thing that always helps is by trying to listen actively. You’ve probably heard of active listening before and now it’s time to try it.
A rule of thumb is to pay very close attention to what the other person is saying in a conversation.
Try to place yourself in the situation or their shoes and you might find that coming up with questions to ask to keep the conversation flowing is easier.
Even small talk requires big effort. Being an introvert, you probably know that as a fact.
If you find yourself in a conversation that you can’t or shouldn’t avoid, just do your best in trying to listen actively. It does help. It can be a bit exhausting but it certainly does have its perks.
Written and Digital Communication
What introverts usually find is that they’re more comfortable with communicating in text than in person. It’s because there’s little to no anxiety in being yourself as you type a response.
When you’re in person, you probably use your energy reserves in that communication.
Written communication can be via text messages, emails, app chats, and let’s not forget the classic – letters.
Whichever form you’re using, it’s best to look up certain etiquette that you always have a chance of reverting back to if the exchange is going in an unwanted direction.
So look up and read what you can find on communication etiquette. Interestingly, people always like someone who knows how to communicate in writing pretty well.
Be it apps or letters, being able to hold on to your composure gives you an edge over other people as well.
You might have heard this before and it’s true that ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ do go a long way. I’ve seen it. Funny thing is, even when add ‘please’ to a sentence that seems slightly rude, it somehow starts looking a little more professional, but it still stays rude though.