7 factors that trigger workplace communication anxiety

Do you find yourself getting jittery when you need to convey new ideas, interact with assertive individuals, or stand your ground? You might relate to these 7 triggers…

Fearing judgement

Worries about how colleagues perceive us can disrupt workplace communication, as the fear of being judged or criticised for our ideas looms large.

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Fading confidence

Self-doubt and concerns about making mistakes or stumbling over words can instigate fear. Feeling like you're improvising can set your heart racing.🩺Power dynamics at play: Hierarchies and dominant personalities in the workplace can create added pressure in communication. The fear of saying something wrong or making a poor impression can be paralysing.

Performance anxiety

Presenting ideas can trigger performance anxiety, leading to stage fright symptoms such as trembling and sweating as you grapple with public expectations.

Fearing conflict

Engaging in tough conversations or delivering feedback can be anxiety-inducing. Worries about colleague conflicts or potential backlash can leave you with a dry mouth and a quivering voice.

Lack of preparation

Insufficient knowledge or preparation on a subject contributes to nervousness. You may fret about stumbling over words or struggling to answer questions.

High-stakes scenarios

Important meetings, negotiations, or job interviews carry high stakes, intensifying nervousness as the outcome can significantly impact your career.

We've all experienced one or more of these challenges at some point, but there are effective strategies to address them. With a supportive environment for practice, you can overcome these hurdles.

Which of these triggers do you most resonate with?