APPRENTICE star and West Ham United vice-chair Karren Brady answers your careers questions, plus try our money-saving tips.
Here she gives advice to a reader who is highly introverted and struggling with working as a receptionist.
Q) I’ve recently gone back to work after a seven-year gap to raise my children, as a family friend offered me a receptionist position at her small company.
The trouble is, I’m highly introverted and find talking to strangers stressful, so being a receptionist is my worst nightmare!
I don’t want to be ungrateful, and I really value having a job that works around school pick-up and drop-off, but I dread going to work each day and I feel really anxious even after I’ve left the office.
What should I do?
Maura, via email
A) It sounds like you’re in a challenging situation, balancing gratitude for your job with the stress it causes.
If you are feeling mentally strong enough to delve into your anxieties to make this job work, I suggest having an honest conversation with your friend.
Since you have a personal relationship, she will likely be understanding and want to help.
Use coping strategies, such as mindfulness or deep breathing, before, during and after work.
Spend a few minutes each day visualising positive interactions to build your confidence.
Gradually expose yourself to situations that would make you anxious, starting with brief, low-stress interactions – such as small talk with a supermarket checkout assistant – and slowly increase the complexity and duration.
Joining a support group for people with social anxiety can help you feel less alone and gain tips to help you cope.
In time, if the job continues to be a significant source of stress, it may be time to seek a role that aligns better with your personality.
Be honest and thankful to your friend so that she understands your reasons.
