To become more influential in the workplace, consider taking these three "micro-risks," says an expert: "You can start insanely small."

Henna Pryor, a workplace performance coach, frequently assists mid-career clients who possess strong organizational, efficiency, and detail-oriented skills, yet struggle to secure promotions, according to her.

Pryor states that many people are hindered by one thing: the fear of feeling uncomfortable.

Since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, adults have been more socially anxious and have had difficulty forming relationships, studies show.

In remote and hybrid work, individuals, whether extroverted or introverted, have neglected to handle the "organic chaos" that takes place in social settings such as water coolers, elevators, and meetings, according to Pryor. Now, people are taking extreme measures to evade the uncomfortable sensation of a sticky conversation.

Mastering communication and public speaking is a guide to becoming a skilled communicator.

Pryor suggests that taking "micro-risks" to get your work noticed is necessary to avoid uncertainty, which can make it harder to take "macro-risks" such as pitching new ideas or asking for a raise.

Here are three micro-risks you can take to increase your credibility, confidence, and influence in the workplace.

Ask for help

As you spend more time at work, it can become increasingly apparent that your colleagues expect you to have all the answers. While it's important to do your research and form your own opinions, it's also wise to recognize when you need additional guidance. By admitting that you need help, you can save time, money, and potentially damage to your reputation, according to Pryor.

"As you progress in your career, you may start to believe that you should have all the answers."

It's better to ask for help than to avoid awkwardness, as the risk of making a mistake is much greater.

As long as you ask for help at an appropriate time and in an appropriate manner, most people enjoy feeling needed.

Politely survey your friends

Your job and career will undergo changes, including being hired at new companies, working with new individuals, or receiving promotions. These alterations may cause you to feel uncertain about your responsibilities.

If you feel uncomfortable approaching your new boss, consider forming a "awkward army" of trusted colleagues and discuss any concerns or questions you may have, such as how to pronounce a co-worker's name or how certain supervisors prefer reports formatted.

To initiate a conversation with your boss about a promotion, how did you approach the topic? What is the typical response of a particular co-worker when receiving feedback?

Pryor suggests that engaging in personal conversations can help individuals feel more confident and prepared for larger professional discussions.

Regularly cross the 'cringe chasm'

The "cringe chasm" refers to the discomfort or awkwardness one must endure to achieve a goal, as Pryor describes it.

According to Adam Grant, an organizational psychology professor at the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School, pushing through challenges to achieve a difficult goal is a sign of growth.

"Grant advised the New York Times last year that the sensation of discomfort is a sign that you're about to learn something new. This signal should not only be noticed but intensified."

Pryor suggests building awkwardness tolerance by leaving your phone in your pocket in grocery store lines and elevators, and being open to small talk when the chance arises.

"The feeling of awkwardness arises when we realize that the person we perceive as our true self is perceived differently by others, but it is an emotion that fades away with time."

To become a successful and confident communicator, enroll in CNBC's online course, "Become an Effective Communicator: Master Public Speaking." Our program will teach you how to speak clearly and confidently, manage your nerves, choose the right words, and use effective body language to make a great first impression. Register now and use code EARLYBIRD for a 30% discount through July 10, 2024.

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