I remember the frustration looking at job offers and feeling like I would never fit. Employers are looking for bubbly, energetic, social people… but what about seriousness? the ability to concentrate on a single task? of empathy? solidarity? They are often traits that are in needed but are overlooked.
It’s true that some common workplace situations that can be moderately stressful for others, such as speaking in meetings or receiving feedback, can quickly overstimulate an HSP.
This is because as HSPs we process information in a deeper and more reflective way. Therefore, it takes us longer to make decisions, and we get frustrated for working slower than others (we pay attention to details), for not being as sociable or talking around the bush.
In this article I would like to talk about the strengths that highly sensitive people have by nature and that can make us stand out at work. I think it is important to highlight them in a world where being more sensitive seems to be a problem.
Advantages of being a highly sensitive person at work
Ability to focus and think deeply
Highly sensitive people are by nature more reflective than others. In a suitable work environment, without too many external stimuli such as people talking or constant calls, we can concentrate for long periods of time on a single task. While other people would get bored after a short time and seek other external stimuli (talking to a partner or going to smoke a cigarette), HSPs try to finish a task before distracting themselves with another activity.
We are more empathic
Your emotions are not a weakness, but something you should appreciate if you don’t already. In fact, having a strong and developed emotional intelligence is an essential skill in business, especially in managerial positions.
Take note of times when you listened to others (be they co-workers or clients), identified with them, and were able to find a reasonable solution or response that helped turn their experience into a positive one.
We avoid gossip or criticizing behind the back.
Highly sensitive people are generally “anti-drama”, we don’t like to criticize others behind their back and we don’t feel comfortable when a co-worker comes to tell us gossip about others.
This is something that is not usually taken into account when selecting personnel by the human resources team, but it certainly helps create a healthier and more productive work atmosphere.
We pay attention to details
As noted, HSPs are very aware of their surroundings. You can notice subtle changes and differences before anyone else, and you can use that attention in your work. From writing a resume or selling your skills for a possible promotion, make sure you have specific examples of times that attention to detail has led to success for your company.
Creative by nature
HSPs are creative people. This is something that can be used not only in artistic trades but in any department where innovation is encouraged. By processing information taking into account more stimuli we see things from a unique perspective and that can lead to a new product or new more productive work processes.
We don’t need constant supervision
HSPs require little supervision, and many thrive when they can be left alone. Your independence is an asset in many positions that require a “self starter” attitude.
On the contrary, we do not like to be controlled in each task, since we will get stressed, and it will be counterproductive.
We are very intuitive
There are many reasons why your intuition is useful. You are highly in tune with emotions (both your own and those of others), which can help you make decisions, read others, and delegate tasks.
You are also very aware of your surroundings, which can help you make informed decisions about your work.
Loyalty
We have a hard time making important decisions, as we like to take all factors and possibilities into account. But once we decide on one thing, like a job, we give it our all.
Due to the fact that we like routine and stability we seek a permanent job. In the times we live in, loyalty should be seen as a critical quality to have a good team of workers. Loyalty is common among many introverts and HSPs. You are loyal to those you work for because you are unlikely to seek change (unless you need to).
Do you identify with the above? What would you say is your biggest advantage as a highly sensitive person? I read you in the comments!🔽🔽
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