Finding your voice in meetings

In many organizations, your leadership skills are measured by your contributions during meetings. Speaking up effectively can be nerve wracking, especially if you’re shy, new, or uncomfortable in your job.

We’re sharing a few insights on how to help combat nerves and allow you to thrive in your meetings.

What’s the value in speaking up?

When you’re added to meetings, it means leaders are looking for your valuable insight, so this is your opportunity to make an impact. Putting your ideas out there proves you’re capable of your job and in the right place.  

4 Strategies to Help Build Your Confidence in Meetings

Prepare in Advance

Come to your meeting prepared with a few questions and comments. This will help you stay focused and feel more confident to speak up.

Ask Questions

When in doubt, just ask a question. Following the bullet above, prepare some in advance, but if one pops up during a discussion, note it down and bring it up when the person is done speaking. This will show you’re listening and involved in the discussion.

Listen

The best contributors are the best listeners. Using active listening skills like nodding your head will show you’re engaged throughout the meeting. This will help in learning when it’s appropriate to speak your mind and lead you to having better insights.

Practice

Practice makes perfect. Coming up with a strategy and practicing it routinely will help you gain confidence when entering any meeting. Inform your manager of your plan to help hold yourself accountable.

Being nervous about speaking up can happen to anyone, even executives within major companies. However, finding your voice is incredibly important to growing and showing leadership you are valuable in your role.