Dr. Fallon Goodman, a clinical psychologist and professor at George Washington University, discusses the intricate dynamics of social anxiety in the workplace. She highlights the struggle many, particularly Gen Z, face during networking events. The conversation delves into the efficacy of exposure therapy, with a gripping personal tale of climbing Mount Fuji amid panic. They also tackle the role of therapy in boosting mental health and the careful navigation of social media connections at work, emphasizing the need for genuine interactions and boundaries.
Understanding that social anxiety is common among many can help individuals feel less isolated in their experiences and struggles.
Setting small, achievable goals before social interactions can significantly alleviate anxiety and improve confidence in networking situations.
Deep dives
Navigating Social Anxiety in Professional Settings
Social anxiety is a common experience for many individuals, especially in professional contexts where networking and socializing are essential. It can provoke feelings of self-doubt, making even simple interactions feel daunting. Strategies to manage these feelings include understanding that social anxiety is a shared experience among many, allowing individuals to see they are not alone in their struggles. One way to alleviate anxiety before networking events is to define a specific, achievable goal, such as introducing oneself to a set number of people, rather than fixating on feelings of comfort.
The Impact of the Pandemic on Social Skills
The pandemic has significantly affected social skills, particularly for younger generations entering the workforce for the first time. As many young adults were isolated during critical developmental years, they are now relearning how to socialize in person, leading to heightened anxiety. Statistics reveal that around 90% of Gen Zers report experiencing social anxiety, which emphasizes the need for open discussions on this topic. This group often feels pressure to perform socially in situations that once felt natural, further complicating their return to in-person interactions.
Understanding the Roots of Social Anxiety
Social anxiety is characterized by an overwhelming fear of negative evaluation or rejection in social situations, affecting both introverts and extroverts alike. It is essential to differentiate social anxiety from introversion, as the former pertains to fear while the latter involves a preference for social settings. By recognizing that social anxiety can present itself in various contexts—including casual discussions and professional engagements—individuals can better understand their own reactions in social situations. Mental health professionals encourage reframing thoughts around these fears to mitigate their impact.
Effective Strategies for Addressing Social Anxiety
Working to manage social anxiety can involve various techniques, such as exposure therapy, which encourages individuals to gradually engage in anxiety-provoking situations. This should be approached thoughtfully, focusing on genuine interaction rather than relying on safety behaviors, such as avoiding conversation. Setting small, achievable goals can bolster one’s confidence in social spaces, as consistent successes lead to a gradual decrease in overall anxiety levels. It is also advisable to seek professional help when needed, as therapy can provide valuable coping strategies and reinforce positive experiences in social situations.
Check out a new show we love: LinkedIn's Let's Talk Offline. Co-hosted byGianna Prudente, LinkedIn's early career development editor, andJaméJackson, a LinkedIn community manager, this show seeks to answer unfiltered questions about work life, covering topics like: Setting workplace boundaries, building your personal brand, scoring your dream job, and navigating office friendships. The show aims to help Gen Z and young millennial professionals advocate for themselves, stand out, and make positive changes in their work lives - all without sacrificing their values, sanity, or sleep. In this episode, they dive deep into social anxiety.
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