Careers for someone with social anxiety?

[kned]

I've accepted that being outgoing and the centre of attention is not me. I don't feel comfortable or confident in group situations and much prefer one-on-one interactions.

Im looking at retraining and trying to decide on a new career. Is anyone able to share their experience of what jobs work best for someone who has social anxiety?

[Nervybella]

Hi Kned

Ivwpuld love to be able to give you a hard and fast answer, but in truth, this is going to change from person to person. I’ve struggled with working and managing my anxiety, but for me it’s been a case by case thing. Similar jobs but different company cultures can make all the difference

what type of work were you in previously?

What do you like doing? Would you want to be indoors in an office? Admin type work wouldn’t have too much customer interaction

there are some good personality/aptitude tests out there that can suggest career paths based in your preferences and traits. Might be worth looking at these

Feeo free to write back here and let us know what you think. These forums have been really helpful for me so hopefully you will find some advice here too

best

Bella

[reaktion]

Hi kned.

Im the same when it comes to group situations.

Ive been working in the cabinet making/joinery industry for 15 years. In my experience, if someone in this industry doesn't suffer from anxiety then they don't really care about your mental illness.

At my last job i even made the mistake of letting my supervisor about my anxiety depression. He ended making things alot worse for me.

Im 2 weeks into my new job now and all they care about is if you can do the job.

Im kinda stuck in this industry and can only get jobs in this industry.

Ive worked for 4 different companies and it's been the same experience.

I hope this helps, tho it is only my experience.

[kned]

Sorry for the delay in responding!

My background is in community services so lots of working with people, advocating for them, some office work, lots of meetings and promoting projects/programs in the community. I did 80% of the time enjoy it but there was a huge part of me that found it exhausting and anxiety provoking. I also wasn't the best at things like attending networking events and meetings where the employer would rely on me promoting the business. I just can't do it and often would sit back, and only talk to those who approached me.

Im still undecided, life has been busy with family. However I'm still looking at all my options!

[Samsonsam]

There are jobs where you can work online from home. I personally make $80k a year working from home and before you say you dont think it's possible for yourself I had no previous experience in the industry I work in, I have no university or tafe degrees. I simply just looked and applied.


You could try a job at Appen perfect for someone with anxiety.

Lion bridge as a tester is also a great one for people with anxiety. Neither require alot of experience and both desperate for aussie employees