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I’m an introvert and I dread going to work each day – but I don’t want to let my friend down after she gave me the job

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APPRENTICE star and West Ham United vice-chair Karren Brady answers your careers questions, plus try our money-saving tips.

Here she gives advice to a reader who is highly introverted and struggling with working as a receptionist.

Karren Brady, Baroness Brady, CBE is a British business executive and television personality

Q) I’ve recently gone back to work after a seven-year gap to raise my children, as a family friend offered me a receptionist position at her small company.

The trouble is, I’m highly introverted and find talking to strangers stressful, so being a receptionist is my worst nightmare!

I don’t want to be ungrateful, and I really value having a job that works around school pick-up and drop-off, but I dread going to work each day and I feel really anxious even after I’ve left the office.

What should I do?

Maura, via email

A) It sounds like you’re in a challenging situation, balancing gratitude for your job with the stress it causes.

If you are feeling mentally strong enough to delve into your anxieties to make this job work, I suggest having an honest conversation with your friend.

Since you have a personal relationship, she will likely be understanding and want to help.

Use coping strategies, such as mindfulness or deep breathing, before, during and after work.

Spend a few minutes each day visualising positive interactions to build your confidence.

Gradually expose yourself to situations that would make you anxious, starting with brief, low-stress interactions – such as small talk with a supermarket checkout assistant – and slowly increase the complexity and duration.

Joining a support group for people with social anxiety can help you feel less alone and gain tips to help you cope.

In time, if the job continues to be a significant source of stress, it may be time to seek a role that aligns better with your personality.

Be honest and thankful to your friend so that she understands your reasons.

  •  Got a careers question for Karren? Email bossingit@fabulousmag.co.uk.