Are you afraid to speak up at work meetings? Don’t worry; I’m sure we all have been there at some point.
Or, maybe you hesitate to offer praise in a meeting, or you can't seem to initiate conversations with others? Even if you are an introvert, which I can be myself at times, know that you will experience greater fulfillment not only at work but in life by building relationships with those around you.
So, what are some benefits of speaking up in meetings? Some important benefits include immediate feedback for our ideas and helping us to develop better working relationships.
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These benefits could, in turn, create more meaningful relationships, could potentially lead to more growth and responsibilities, while also enhancing our visibility with colleagues and executives within the workplace. This is always a good thing sis.
Here are seven ways you can make your voice heard in a meeting:
1. Do not censor yourself
Once you stop censoring yourself, you’ll automatically speak out more. It’s important to share your thoughts and ideas without over-editing them or limiting your expression. Don’t lose valuable opportunities to share your views and be seen as the influential trendsetter that you are.
2. Always come prepared
This is where being an early bird comes in handy. You do not want to be late for a work meeting, it's never a good look. Before every meeting, show up at least 10 minutes early, and try to choose one topic that you will address, no matter what. Select an item that is important to you and prepare appropriately so that you will be ready to add to the discussion in a positive and impactful way.
3. Ask questions
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One of the easiest ways and most efficient ways to show you have been paying attention in a meeting is to speak up and ask questions. Here are some starters: “How did you discover that?” or “That is interesting, how did you come to this decision?” Leverage your knowledge to probe deeper into what your colleagues are saying because your input is valuable. You will then become an active participant, which will make for a more productive meeting overall.
4. Remember your influence and power
It’s typical in meetings to defer to a boss or higher-ups in the office to take the lead. However, you should always assert your influence and power. If you don't, you may be giving away your real potential. Learn to leverage these moments. Use them to shine and reveal what a real impact you have on the organization. Someone will take notice. Trust me.
5. Believe your thoughts are worth it
When someone else speaks up, and you feel a difference of opinion, don’t automatically think that you are wrong and they are right. When you give someone else’s ideas greater validation than your own, it can immediately cause doubt and worry, which is not true at all. Your experiences, thoughts, and opinions are not only valid and worthwhile but might be what others need to hear and learn from.
6. Speak without hesitation
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Always remember to speak when you want to talk. Always be willing to push the limits of your comfort zone. Treat yourself the gift of total freedom of speech and you will soon be comfortable sharing your thoughts without any hesitation.
7. Lastly, speak up first
Search for opportunities in each meeting to be the very first to express your viewpoint. When you speak first, you can cut that self-doubt right where it stands. So the next time you are in a meeting, lead the discussion instead of just following along and reap the benefits, sis.
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