Get rid of shyness, talk and talk, limit your talk within your work area.

If you do not talk American think you are the most stupid person and do not know anything. See the Trump , his bull-sit is working.

I mean start talking from basic and start giving more option going step ahead. That will make them happy as well you were the most knowledgeable person ever met.
But you need to know your subject matter well and do not hesitate during the conversation, that will give them to think other way. .