Communication in the workplace can be challenging, especially for introverts. However, Stanford University lecturer and communication expert Matt Abrahams suggests that getting noticed doesn’t necessarily require attending every social event. By intentionally engaging specific people, or your “audience,” in the workplace, you can tailor your message to their needs and preferences. This involves focusing on the needs of your audience and making your message relevant by conducting reconnaissance, reflection, and research.
Reconnaissance involves exploring and observing how your colleagues interact with each other in order to mirror their communication styles back to them. By paying attention to their topics of conversation and communication preferences, you can tailor your approach to match. Additionally, by taking on tasks that place you in rooms with decision-makers and volunteering for opportunities that give you access and influence, you can gather valuable information to tailor your communication effectively.
Researching methods of influence both inside and outside the workplace can also help you enhance your communication skills. Pay attention to how successful influencers, such as podcasters and TED Talk speakers, keep their audiences engaged. Use inclusive language and present tense when making recommendations, as research shows these are more persuasive. Asking artificial intelligence chatbots for inspiration and focusing on asking questions to engage your audience can also be beneficial.
Reflection is another key component of effective communication. By reflecting on your interactions and their effectiveness, you can learn from mistakes and successes. Introverts, in particular, tend to excel in reflection due to their observational skills and ability to think before speaking. By taking time to reflect on your interactions and adjust your approach as needed, you can improve your communication skills and better engage your audience.
Overall, tailoring your communication to the needs and preferences of your audience is essential for effective communication in the workplace. By conducting reconnaissance, reflection, and research, you can gather valuable information to help you engage with your audience successfully. Additionally, reflecting on your interactions and making adjustments as needed can help you continuously improve your communication skills. By focusing on understanding and engaging your audience, even introverted individuals can stand out in the workplace.
