We’ve heard how introverts are quiet people who are introspective and always want time alone, however, Adeshola Maryann is probably the most memorable introvert you’ll meet in a workplace because of her beaming smile, a trait that got her the title of the smiling princess at AFEX.

In this episode, she shares with us how an ideal day involves her cooking/sleeping or even doing both if it was possible. She also delved into her role as Clearing and Settlement Analyst at AFEX, how she spends her time away from work, and what real introverts do.

Let’s meet her.

Hi Maryann, welcome to the seat

Hello, thank you for having me too, Firstly, is this a serious professional kind of interview? Do I have to speak in career lingo? I’ve used up every business term I have for the week.

No, it isn’t, why were you worried about the interview at first?

Lol, I wasn’t worried per se; I thought it was a video, and I wouldn’t say I like the camera, and I also don’t have my favorite blazars on. It’s my lucky camera charm.

Uhmmmm, tell us more about you, exciting facts we may not know already know; we know you have a lucky charm already.

You know when you’re asked a question and suddenly do not remember anything about yourself abi. That’s what’s happening. I can’t even remember my favorite food now.

But I’d say it is my ability to enjoy my presence alone. Not many people want this, so I guess it will count as an interesting piece about me. Introverted people may shy away from crowds, but they would like the company of others. My case is different; I love being absolutely alone; it helps me relax and focus better.

Does this affect your performance here in AFEX? Seeing that you need to relate with your team members constantly.

No, not really. I join in on jokes and every other thing once in a while. Besides, you can’t stay with people and be mute forever. My role involves many calculations and that is what keeps me going too. People know I am heavy on the quantitative area, so you can’t expect me to talk when I am computing data.

How did you join AFEX?

A close friend introduced me to AFEX in 2022, when I was looking for a company to serve as my place of Primary placement, and she told me to try applying to AFEX; luckily for me, I got in, and I’m here replying to these questions.

What has working in AFEX taught you so far?

Since I started working at AFEX, I’ve gotten better at applying Tech to everyday life. I’ve also improved my PowerPoint and Excel skills, which has really improved my productivity and helped me scale through.

The beauty of the combination of both learning and practicality is the best for me. I could learn about a particular app today, and I’ll have to use it tomorrow. This way, it sticks to the memory, and you record actual growth in that regard. I’ve been impacted greatly, and I am grateful.

How would you define the impact?

I’d say my mindset/expectation was changed.

When I got in, I thought an interning position would be an excuse for menial jobs and be everyone’s go-to person to get food and run errands in the office. But on reaching here after the onboarding, I was immediately assigned to a team and tasked with responsibilities task; it was pretty shocking and exciting.

When you’re not at work, what do you love doing? What excites you the most?

Honestly, being by myself is gold. I enjoy my own company because I’m introverted. So, I’d say lying in bed and probably surfing the internet excites me. However, occasional cooking helps calm my nerves, and I look towards getting new spices and trying new recipes.

If we searched your bag, what funny thing would we find?

You’ll find a couple of things, and I’m unsure what to term funny; I always keep a lip gloss in the bag because a lady shouldn’t be caught with dry/ashy lips. It’s my number one rule on etiquette.

Do you have more etiquettes we need to know?

Quite a handful, a little and a little there, something I know many are aware of too, wash your hands after using the toilet, never leave an unfinished food open etc.

Thank you, Maryann, it was wonderful having you here. You’re welcome.