Here are some tips that may help you stray away from shyness in a new work environment and even enjoy the company of others around you comfortably:
- Introduce yourself. Get out there! No, you do not have to go around shaking everyone's hand, but put a smile on your face, and try to get to know your fellow staff members. Whether it be a coworker or the cleaning lady, it helps to meet the people you are surrounded by daily.
- Become comfortable with your environment. You are officially working among people whom you will see every day, so try to feel out your area. Look around the building, and get out a couple of times a week to explore the scenery. You can get to know your location and, thereby, feel more comfortable about your job.
- Get involved in social activities with coworkers. Whether it be bowling or bar hopping, you may learn to enjoy after-hours fun with your peers! If you enjoy your coworkers, mixing business with fun can be a treat and allow you to be more comfortable and honest!
- Get to know your coworkers. If you are sincerely interested in learning about someone or getting to know an individual, then you won't have to focus on yourself! When you focus on yourself, you can feel self-conscious, which can lead to shyness.
- Be yourself! People can see through fakeness. Use humor and your personable attitude to gain support and friendships. Do not attempt to be someone you are not. Be honest about who you are, and people will respect you for it.
At least try to see what life can be like with a more outgoing attitude. You do not need to be the office mascot or a social butterfly, but you should not fear interactions with others to the extent that you become a fly on the wall, either. Compromise, and create your own balance within your personal guidelines. Blend in, but do not forget to be a valuable force in your office; you are worth it! Good luck!