The Art of Connection:
How to Thrive at Work and Beyond as an Introvert
Have you ever felt like your quiet nature holds you back in a loud world? As an introvert, I used to think that being reserved meant I’d struggle to connect or stand out. But over time, I realised that introversion can actually be a strength, it just requires a different approach.
I’m Fiona, and I’m the kind of person who enjoys quiet corners, long hours in cafés, and time with a good book. I love spending time with people too, but after a few hours of meetings or group discussions, my energy feels drained. It’s not that I don’t enjoy others’ company; it’s simply how I recharge. Accepting that was a big step, but it didn’t mean life suddenly became easier. There are still moments in work meetings, collaborations, or networking events, where staying quiet can mean staying unseen.
In this talk, I’ll share my journey of learning how to navigate those moments, build genuine connections, and communicate with confidence without pretending to be someone I’m not. Because in the end, thriving at work and in life isn’t about changing who you are, it’s about finding your own way to connect, contribute, and be heard.
About Fiona Safari
I’m Fiona, a happy UX Designer with 5 years of experience across industries like travel, banking, and retail, places where communication and collaboration are at the core of how things get done.
Currently, I’m part of the UX team at Tesco, designing complex enterprise tools, a role that constantly challenges and grows my skills in navigating both systems and people.
As an introverted person, I’ve learned that working and connecting with others doesn’t have to look the same for everyone. While communication might come more naturally to some, I’ve found that for me, and many introverts, it’s more about choosing how and when to show up, and saving energy for the moments that matter.
Through experience (and a bit of trial and error), I’ve found ways to build genuine connections, without pretending to be someone I’m not.