What do you do if you struggle with shyness while building professional relationships in content development?

As a highly withdrawn, socially inept introvert, I find it challenging to reach out to people despite receiving positive feedback about my work. Engaging beyond a simple hello is tough for me. And I dread the phone. So, building professional relationships is a Herculean task for me. Though grappling, I have my way of handling it. I am more at ease with messaging or emails. I find them less intimidating than face-to-face or phone calls. So, I start there. Since introverts are often misunderstood as uptight and arrogant, I openly tell people about my struggle and ask for their patience. This makes them supportive and understanding. I slowly build rapport and confidence in my interactions. It does take time, but this approach works for me.

We all experience imposter syndrome, making it hard to overcome. The key is to try; even if it doesn't work out, you've given your best. Trust in your abilities, focus on a small niche, and as you see results, your self-confidence will grow.

If you struggle with shyness while building professional relationships in content development, focus on gradual exposure and practice. Start by initiating small conversations, attending networking events, and actively seeking opportunities to engage with others in your field. Additionally, consider seeking support from mentors or joining professional groups where you can gradually build confidence and skills in networking and relationship-building.

If you feel strongly for something but are shy to put it forward, consider rethinking and recentralising your thoughts again. Why do you think that your opinion will matter, can you make a difference, is your opinion contradictory or repulsive or is it going to ease out impending decisions? Will it be an inspiration for others? Is it going to close the open ended questions and feedback loop. If the answer to any of these is yes, go ahead make your first move and write it down!

Initiate conversations in low-pressure situations, such as breaks or networking events, and gradually expand interactions as you become more comfortable.

Determine what make me shy try figure out what it is that actually makes you shy, I will ask random question to build my confidence, try to be myself even if I feel like my anxiety is kicking in.then finding common ground with my sorroubding will be my key

Always seek feedback; it's essential. Ask colleagues or friends to review your work respectfully. Don't take feedback negatively or personally; instead, listen and implement it into your work. Edit, improve and release.

During conversations, actively listen to others to shift focus away from yourself and onto them, making interactions less intimidating.