That’s a tough one. What you could do is send him e-mail. Print out the e-mail for yourself. Go in to see him or phone him and read it off? I don’t know the exact situation of course, but I cc my manager on everything I do. Occasionally I pop in and ask her if she got it or if she has questions as applicable to the situation.

Extroverts need to know you’re doing something and they need to see it and hear it to be convinced. It doesn’t have to be brilliant. You should practice at home speaking louder and interrupting these people. I’ve been doing that. My deal has been not contributing to discussions enough during meetings. I’m introverted and a little shy with a soft voice, but certainly not dumb or slow.

I find if I can prepare a little before hand or get an agenda from somebody it helps. I also say a lot of that’s a good question, or good idea or I agree. Just to be talking. That way I’m seen to be part of things even when I don’t have anything earth-shattering to say. I have also used the extrovert trick of repeating what someone else already said in different words.

You have to learn how to live in their world and get over the fear of interrupting or feeling like a phony by talking when you don’t have much to say. These things are actually acceptable and preferable to remaining dead silent. With your boss you are totally going to have to interrupt him. Like Boss, you’re making some great points but all I really need to know is- interject your point. If he goes on, so that’s a yes then? Thanks, and get out of there. I do this with my extroverted husband all the time, works like a charm.

I am in marketing for approximately 15 years now. I am an introvert and I am shy as well. I understand they are two different things. I have been fired for not being outgoing enough, not “communicating” well enough (code for I’m not outgoing enough). I’m lucky I found a job where I’m pretty much accepted for not being a gadfly. I do have tremendous difficulty speaking up in meetings. I try to say something, anything. Even if just to acknowledge the ideas of others and that seems to be good enough. Some extroverts are not satisfied with you being kind and giving the minimum. I understand that too. My dream is to get out of the 9 to 5 and freelance. I too can deal better one on one. So maybe that’s your answer? You may also have to fake it a little. It’s painful, but with practice you can learn to kick it up a notch at work with your voice and mannerisms. I learned that overtime. Essentially I am introvert at my desk, in public, and home alone.

really enjoyed this post, will keep coming!