Knowing how to navigate those short, and slightly clumsy, conversations can actually help your career, says workplace expert Henna Pryor.
A major reason people don't get promotions — or reach their "pinnacle level of success" — is because they avoid discomfort, she tells CNBC Make It.
Starting small, even with seemingly inconsequential conversations with peers, can prepare you to broach more difficult conversations with your boss, she says.
Make participating in conversations feel like a game: Every time you contribute to a meeting, draw a star in your notes.
Don't worry if your conversations feel halting — practice will eventually grow your confidence.
Persons:
Pryor, Zers who've, fixating
Organizations:
CNBC