Conceptos Básicos
Speaking up and actively contributing at work, even as an intern, is essential for professional growth and making a meaningful impact.
Resumen
The content discusses the author's personal experience as an intern and the strategies they employed to overcome their initial hesitation to speak up and share their thoughts at work. The key highlights are:
Read, Discuss, and Learn: The author emphasizes the importance of thoroughly understanding the work materials, such as legal documents, by reading them aloud and discussing them with mentors. This helps build a strong foundation for contributing meaningful insights.
Sharing Opinions is a Practiced Skill: The author dispels the notion that sharing opinions is a competition to provide the "best" idea. Instead, it is a skill that requires practice and a willingness to take risks, even if some attempts may not be successful.
Avoid Becoming a Passive Participant: The author cautions against becoming complacent and merely executing tasks without actively engaging in the learning process. Sharing views and asking questions is crucial for professional development and being recognized.
People Appreciate Engaged Employees: The author encourages overcoming the fear of being perceived as "dumb" and instead focusing on articulating thoughts clearly. Colleagues and managers generally appreciate employees who actively participate in discussions.
Develop Reading Speed and Comprehension: The author emphasizes the importance of improving reading speed and conceptual understanding, which can be achieved by reading a diverse range of materials. This helps in quickly grasping and interpreting information.
Adopt a Structured Approach: The author suggests a step-by-step process of asking questions, understanding the concepts, articulating thoughts, and communicating them effectively. This systematic approach can help build confidence and improve communication skills.
The author's personal experiences and the practical advice provided offer valuable insights for interns and early-career professionals on how to overcome shyness and actively contribute in the workplace.
Citas
"Speaking your mind and asking questions are the most essential things to take with yourself to work everyday along with your 3rd Gen-laptop and your small, little and whiny mobile phone."
"In the baby years of one's career, there is no competition to give the 'best' opinions but to share it across like movie reviews."
"Once you set the rapport with your manager, let them know candidly that you find it sometimes difficult to share your views but you make an effort to improve it. Good, non toxic colleagues and mentors actually appreciate the effort when you share your view and engage in the discussion."