Hello guys,

My question is related to the above subjected topic. I do have this issue outside of my workplace too but nothing coming up on that front, so not much worried about that. Please be noted that introvertedness is totally different than being shy or socially anxious. The difference can be found by doing a web search. I am about to join a new organization beginning next week. I have social anxiety and shyness, more towards the higher side. I do not know how to behave in social situations. At times it even trembles me to speak up my name when asked and also my face blushes. I don’t speak a word and most of the times I am mum with thoughts going around in the head. This organization I am joining is a MNC and I am appointed at a lead position. Meaning I will be working with about 5-6 people in the team. I am exceptionally well in my work when I have to work all by myself. My job does not require all the time to interact with people like a Sales or a Marketing person. It is an IT job. But I’m sure you know that it is required to interact with colleagues and co-workers and superiors for something work related. Even if its not work related one has to say “hi”, “hello” on a daily basis, or have a few words or sit with them for lunch. Generally in our country, at work we sit for lunch in a group together on a daily basis. Sometimes there are games or events that happen every Friday or so. So these things are even more adding up to the social situations which makes me feel fearful or nervous. I have heard things about me like “You are a reserved person”, “You seem to be less talkative”, and sometimes people staring at me as if “what’s wrong with him”. I do not know what to do. Please guide me here….at least something starting from the first day to the end of the week. Also please try to understand my situation and suggest me something that does not involve much back on forth as a response from my side on this post. I will be reading all the responses. Also I do not have so much time for going back to the childhood memories and “heal” something. So I am eager for some practical tips and suggestions, something that is doable by a person like me. Maybe some may even relate to my situation and I would like to hear what were your experiences and how do you tackle this situation in your daily lives.

Thanks so much.