5 ways to cope as an introvert at work

Find some guidance if you’re struggling introvert in the office

According to research from Myers-Briggs, over half of us ‘prefer introversion’.

Yet, modern workplace culture can suit our outspoken, extroverted friends more. (Monday presentations, anyone?)

This can leave introverts feeling burnt out, unproductive and out of place.  

What camp you’re in can depend on where you draw your energy from (among other factors). And if you need downtime after social interaction to recharge (introverts) or if you draw energy from being around others (extroverts).

Influenced by tech startup culture, many offices today are trendy, high-energy and open-plan. Spotify plays on loop and there are regular after-work socials.

It can be a lot.

And, of course, it does have its perks too! It benefits everyone to bond with co-workers and to work in a fun environment. 

Though this type of culture can be draining for introverts who may not want or need as much social stimulation as extroverts.

They can find it difficult to concentrate with a lot of distractions. (And sometimes, they want to skip the team quiz after a long day and go home!)   

So, if this all feels strangely familiar, here are five ways to feel more at ease in the workplace.  

How to cope as an introvert at work

1. Request flexible working  

If you’re working in the office everyday, ask to work flexibly. 

Many jobs can now be done remotely, and employers are becoming more open to remote working. It’s amazing how even a couple of days WFH can make a huge difference to productivity and overall wellness. 

In fact, we believe being a full-time remote worker or digital nomad is a game-changer for introverts (and everyone really!). 

Read our guide on how to become a digital nomad. 

2. Work in quiet areas 

Don’t sit at your desk all day. It may be easier to concentrate in quieter areas and without colleagues interrupting your flow.

If you have an afternoon clear of meetings, go to a breakout room or the canteen and work from there.     

3. Find your tribe 

When it comes to coping as an introvert at work, having a good friend in the office can make a huge difference.

Introvert or extrovert, we’re all people and we need companionship. We need someone to vent to and have a coffee break with. Work is an extension of school in many ways and a buddy to have lunch with will make you happier. In fact, research from Wildgoose found that 57% of people said that a good work friend makes their job more enjoyable. 

So, whilst it can be hard, put yourself out there and get to know someone on your team a bit better.      

4. Find a mentor

It’s so useful to have someone that you can learn from and speak to confidentially. Sometimes it can be hard for introverts to speak up about issues, challenges, or situations they need guidance with.

A mentor might not be your line manager, but it should be someone in a more senior role whose opinion you respect.

5. Look for a new job 

If you find yourself searching for ‘how to cope as an introvert at work’ it may be that this office isn’t for you. Not all places suit all people. And if you consistently feel unhappy and overwhelmed where you work, it might be time to move on. And, at this point, you could take the opportunity to look for a new job that offers remote working as mentioned above.  

Hip and buzzy offices don’t work for everyone which management may not always factor in.

Of course, it’s difficult to please everyone. And luckily, mental health and employee well-being has never been more recognised in the workplace, so things are changing. Good management will accommodate all personality types and welcome everyone speaking up and asking for help if they need it.  

This is not professional or lifestyle advice and is for entertainment purposes only.