About the Episode
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About the Episode:
If you’re wondering how you can embrace being an introvert in an industry that often favors extroversion, this episode of Mission Admissions is for you. Host Jeremy Tiers talks with Emily Hannon (an introvert) about some of the challenges she’s faced, and the strategies that help prepare her mentally for things like high school visits, phone calls, and socializing at conferences.
Key Takeaways
- Introverts can thrive in admissions by embracing solitude for recharging while still engaging meaningfully with students and colleagues.
- Confidence is a skill, not a personality trait — preparation, self-awareness, and repetition build it over time.
- Networking doesn’t have to be overwhelming — focus on quality over quantity, and seek out relationships with extroverts who can pull you in.
- Introverted leaders bring depth and empathy to their teams — learning to delegate, communicate clearly, and empower others is key.
- Authenticity is your superpower — especially in student presentations, being relatable and real helps build trust.
- Self-care is strategic — saying "yes to you" helps maintain energy and resilience during travel season or conference marathons.
What actually defines an introvert in 2025?
Emily Hannon kicks off the conversation by debunking the classic “shy and quiet” stereotype. For her, being an introvert means being energized by solitude and finding depth in meaningful conversations — even with strangers. She emphasizes that introversion isn’t about being antisocial; it’s about how you recharge. Introverts are often reflective, observant, and thoughtful — qualities that can be major assets in higher ed when harnessed intentionally.
Host Jeremy Tiers reflects on his own experience, noting that even self-described extroverts need space to recharge after high-energy interactions. This opens the door to a broader conversation about the fluidity of introversion and extroversion — and the importance of understanding where you fall on the spectrum.
What were Emily’s biggest struggles early in her admissions career as an introvert?
Emily shares that the hardest part early on was cold calling students — something that triggered anxiety and self-doubt. It took her a few years to build up the confidence to make those calls without hesitation, and that growth came from gaining clarity and conviction around the value she was offering to students. Over time, she learned to “borrow” some extrovert energy in order to create space for genuine, empathetic conversations.
She also struggled with initiating relationships with colleagues across departments. It wasn’t until mentors and professional organizations like Iowa ACAC welcomed her into the fold that she found her stride. For fellow introverts, she suggests seeking out extroverted colleagues who can help bridge that initial gap — and then focusing on building deep, authentic relationships from there.
What practical strategies help introverts succeed at conferences and networking events?
Emily offers a refreshingly honest take on the challenges introverts face at conferences. Her top advice? Set one small goal for yourself — whether it’s talking to one new person, adding someone on LinkedIn, or visiting a vendor booth. This small win mentality builds momentum without overwhelming your system. She also leans on the acronym “QTIP” (Quit Taking It Personally), reminding herself not to overanalyze conversations or assume the worst when social interactions feel clunky.
During conferences, Emily builds in “buffer time” to decompress, reframes “saying no” as “saying yes to myself,” and focuses on quality over quantity when it comes to networking. She notes that even just showing up to a social event — even if you leave early — is a win worth celebrating.
How does introversion impact presenting and leading group sessions?
Emily finds that she’s more comfortable presenting to students than to peers — because she sees herself as “the adult in the room” with knowledge to share. She makes a point to create a welcoming, low-pressure environment where students feel safe to ask questions. This includes setting expectations up front, using digestible language, and validating the fact that it’s okay not to know everything.
She also intentionally mirrors the energy of her audience. With high-energy students or parents, she meets them with enthusiasm. With more reserved students, she keeps the tone relaxed and approachable. This self-awareness, she says, has helped her bridge the gap between introversion and the outward demands of the role.
What are the keys to building confidence as an introverted professional?
Emily is adamant that confidence is built, not born. For her, preparation is key. Before a big meeting, she outlines her thoughts, prepares notes, and sets realistic goals. She also reflects after interactions — not to criticize herself, but to learn what worked and what could improve.
One of her go-to mindsets is to “gear up” — mentally preparing herself for the energy it will take to be “on” for a presentation or a social setting. She’s learned to accept that it’s okay to need downtime after a high-demand day and encourages others to normalize this for themselves, too.
What about introverted leadership — is it different?
Now in a leadership role, Emily says one of the most important lessons she’s learned is to let go of doing everything herself. As an introvert, the temptation is to retreat into your own bubble and power through alone. But leadership requires delegation, trust, and collaboration. She’s found that openly admitting what she doesn’t know actually builds trust with her team.
Another key insight: learning to advocate for her team across departments, which has required her to be more assertive and direct. Emily highlights the importance of training, trusting, and circling back — a rhythm that helps introverted leaders build strong, empowered teams without needing to change who they are.
How can introverts recharge after high-energy interactions?
Emily emphasizes that recovery time is not optional — it’s essential. After big presentations, travel days, or conferences, she carves out quiet time to regroup. Sometimes that’s retreating to her hotel room, sometimes it’s declining a dinner invitation. And that’s okay. She reminds fellow introverts that choosing yourself isn’t selfish — it’s how you stay effective.
She also finds power in routine — even something as small as sending a follow-up email instead of making a phone call can be a form of “mini-recharging.” And above all, she tries not to beat herself up for needing rest or solitude. Saying “yes to you” is not a weakness — it’s a strategy.
Connect With Our Host:
Jeremy Tiers
https://twitter.com/CoachTiers
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