Readers can embrace their quiet side to live happier and more fulfilled lives, according to this savvy debut guide from career coach Thompson. Plagued since childhood by a stutter and debilitating social anxiety, the author pursued a career in sales to challenge those fears and rose through the ranks once he reframed his “perceived” weaknesses as strengths. Sharing lessons gleaned along the way, Thompson recommends that readers stop faking “bullet-proof confidence” and instead approach others with kindness and honesty; expand personal and professional networks by strengthening ties with acquaintances and colleagues; and learn from others’ communication styles and strategies. Thompson gears the advice largely toward professional development, with much talk of “optimizing” connections that might eventually yield career opportunities, and he strikes an effective balance between empowering readers to embrace their shyness and encouraging them to venture outside their comfort zones. It’s a solid resource for young professionals looking to break out of their shells.

Publishers Weekly

Once an introvert who felt hampered by his stutter, Thompson worked with, instead of against, his challenges to become a successful career coach and communications adviser. In this book, he offers guidance for other introverts on making the most of their unique strengths and preferences. Among the highlights are Thompson’s guidance on learning to network, asserting leadership, using everyday interactions to improve public speaking skills, and discovering how the traits of shyness can be harnessed to create powerful interpersonal connections. It’s an encouraging and relatable read, as Thompson reveals his own struggles and successes and includes anecdotes from his students as well. The book clearly breaks down the elements of successful social interactions, making this a helpful resource for readers who are often overwhelmed by in-the-moment discourse. Thompson’s work is a perfect fit for those who dislike traditional networking and are seeking motivating tips and exercises to help them achieve their life and career goals. An encouraging read for anyone looking to hone their listening and observational skills while staying true to their own needs and abilities.

Library Journal

In a world that lionizes loudness, it's actually the quiet and shy among us who are best set up to thrive. Michael Thompson provides an important new way of understanding what it really takes to stand out!

Cal Newport, New York Times bestselling author of Digital Minimalism and Deep Work

In Shy by Design, author Michael Thompson offers up simple, yet elegant strategies to deploy for overthinking. For those of us who grapple with this malady daily, this book is a gift, a huge relief, and an easier way to be more wonderfully human.

Denise Young Smith, former Apple VP of HR & Talent, author of When We Are Seen

An inspiring call-to-action for "quiet types," this book is a must-read for anyone who's ever felt overshadowed in our loud world. Thompson shows how thoughtfulness can be a competitive advantage and offers insight on turning supposed weaknesses into potent strengths. For anyone looking to harness their shy nature as a source of personal and professional power, this book is a game changer.

Melody Wilding, LMSW, executive coach and bestselling author of Trust Yourself: Stop Overthinking and Channel Your Emotions for Success at Work

Shy by Design is a vital book for ALL professionals looking to summon their inner confidence and courage to live a life and career on their terms, while elevating the people around them. Vulnerable, raw, and candid, Michael delivers a powerful conversation on how to overcome fear, let your best self shine, and help others find their own, unique voice. As Michael writes, “meaningful careers are forged by providing meaningful moments for others.” Michael teaches you this essential, emotionally intelligent skill set, as well as the nuances of masterful communication skills for advancing yourself forward toward the life and career you’ve dreamed of.

Christopher D. Connors, bestselling author of Emotional Intelligence for the Modern Day Leader and The Champion Leader