Online meetings might seem to be a preferred experience for introverts, but video meetings are turning out to be just as stressful as in-person meetings. Meetings can be especially stressful for introverts where they have to engage with a group of people while also strategizing how to get a word in between all the extroverts.

Thea Orozco, the author of The Introvert’s Guide to the Workplace, explains that “Introverts may become distracted by the many things happening on screen; it’s harder to pick up on body language, or to interrupt.” For introverts who already struggle with what to say and when to say it, the lack of body language is crippling. There are no cues to figure out when to jump into the conversation. It’s easier to allow the louder voices to run the meeting. As managers this is not good, because discussions will skew to the opinions of the extroverts. For introverted employees, not participating in meetings might make them appear unprepared or uninterested.

Managers can structure online meetings in a way that makes them easier for introverts to navigate. Meanwhile, introverts can learn new strategies to help them participate in online meetings more easily.

Strategies for Managers

• With a bit of structure and planning online meetings can be made into a friendlier experience for introverts. Some ideas to try
• Structure meetings so that everyone has a chance to speak. This way introverts do not have to interrupt anyone or compete with extroverts.
• Use the chat function. It’s simpler to join into a conversation or add an opinion in a chat.
• Create an agenda and send it out before the meeting. This will give introverts time to review the information that will be discussed and time to decide if they want to speak on the subject.
• Use the raise hand feature. This will necessitate that managers pay attention to whose hand went up and decide if one person is dominating the discussion. But introverts will be able to join into the conversation more easily, knowing that they are seen and will get their turn.
• Leave time at the end for discussion and call on each person. Giving each person a moment at the end of a meeting can allow everyone to share their last thoughts if they were unable to get a moment to speak in the meeting.

Strategies for Employees

• Review the meeting agenda in advance. Have an idea of which topics you most want to discuss and look for an opening in the discussion when they come up. Or contact your manager in advance and ask that you have time in the meeting to discuss a certain item.
• Ask your manager if they would consider the raise hand feature, if you find a few employees dominating the discussion.
• Consider being the first person to speak on the topic being discussed. When a topic is first introduced often there is a pause before the group gains momentum. Be prepared and start talking.
• Follow-up with your manager or team on any items you did not have a chance to weigh in on.

When managers and introverted employees adopt new strategies and ways of conducting meetings, there is more of a chance all voices will have an opportunity to join in the discussion and contribute to the company.