is it bad to be quiet?

I just started a new job and I’ve been there for a few weeks now, the manager and a few other colleagues keep telling me I’m quiet and don’t speak but it’s not true. I just don’t really speak to them because they haven’t made an effort to speak to me and even when I’ve smiled at them or tried to speak I’ve been ignored. I have social anxiety too so getting a job in the first place was a big step for me but I talk to pretty much all of my other colleagues except those people who call me quiet. What’s your opinion or advice on this?

In my experience being too quiet can come across as being defensive, cold and not being a ‘team player’.

I’m in the same boat! Next time they make such complaint, just tell them that you’re always open for a conversation and they’re welcome to initiate conversations. For some people, socialisation is a gradual process and forcing it only makes for a really unpleasant impression. Encourage them to make first moves, thereby widening the opportunity to know them better. Only use this tactic to whomever makes such comment.

Thank you! Thing is, the people saying it aren’t the nicest towards me so I’ve stopped making an effort to socialize because they constantly nitpick at what I do. It has put me off from socializing with them all together.