Fear of being seen as unintelligent at work

[GizmoIsSoFluffy]

Just that. I have social anxiety, and I'm scared of talking to senior people at work as I'm worried they'll think I'm unknowledgeable and thick. All I want to do is be respected, but I can't get over this hurdle. Help.

Hypnosis?

How would you know that you were or weren't respected?

They would tell me. Which they haven't
But that doesn't stop me thinking everyone is gossiping about me behind my back.
I've already been made redundant twice.in my life, I don't want it again.

I'm not sure if you want to keep your head down & out of trouble, being quietly competent, or if you want to impress managers & career progress quickly so need to attract attention.

Nothing ventured nothing gained or Quiet & Steady -- you need to make your peace with one of these worker philosophies.

I was in the top few at primary school - A v small village school.
So have gone through life assuming I am above average intelligence so never worry about this.
Has something happened in your childhood to give you this worry.