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How To Speak Up At Meetings

Writer's picture: Marcy WilliamsMarcy Williams

BY: Cristian Carpio - VCU Student


We all know how stressful group meetings and conferences can be. This can be true if you’re an introvert or if you’re not comfortable speaking out. Although meetings can be an inconvenience, it’s important to speak your mind and participate in the sharing of ideas and information with your peers and executives. Here is a guide on how to conquer your fear of public speaking and add value to every meeting you attend.


Prepare

Many times we often feel like we aren’t knowledgeable enough or offer any useful input. To prevent these thoughts from inhibiting us during a meeting, it’s important to prepare yourself by gathering all your needed materials and making a list of thoughts in advance. Coming unprepared to a meeting is like trying to teach a class without knowing the material yourself, it’s just not a good idea. Most of the time you will know why the meeting is being held or what topic will be addressed, so refresh yourself with that information beforehand.


Ask questions

It never really hurts to ask questions especially in a meeting where ideas and reports are being constantly shared and thrown around. Asking someone for clarification for an idea allows you and the entire group to really think about all the pros and cons that may arise. This can also be helpful in times when the discussion is going off topic by asking how each idea relates to the main topic. Overall, asking questions is a great way to add value to the meeting and shows that you are listening to everyone’s input.

Your Thoughts Are Worth Sharing

The fear that your thoughts aren’t worth sharing is often times the biggest reason many have trouble speaking up in meetings. This is true if someone speaking has a view that is contrary to your own. Don’t let intimidation or self-doubt stop you from letting your thoughts be heard. Don’t hesitate to speak up and say your mind as too much thinking can cause you to miss your chance to provide input in a discussion where subjects change rapidly. Your experiences and perspective are valid and may be the exact thing those in the meeting need to hear. Remember to stay confident and that you were asked to be there for a reason.


Frisch, B. and Cary G. (2016, Feb 19). How to Get Staff to Speak up at Meetings. Retrieved from www.irishtimes.com/business/work/how-to-get-staff-to-speak-up-at-meetings-1.2539912.

Hough, J. (2014, Feb 18). The Value of Speaking Up at Meetings. Retrieved from https://blog.cetrain.isu.edu/blog/bid/336513/The-Value-of-Speaking-Up-at-Meetings.

Mitchell, O. The Introvert’s Ultimate Guide to Speaking Up in Meetings. Retrieved from https://speakingaboutpresenting.com/presentation-skills/speaking-up-in-meetings-for-introverts/.

Molinsky, A. (2017, Feb 23). Want to Learn to Speak Up in Meetings? Try These 7 Tips. Retrieved from www.inc.com/andy-molinsky/7-tips-to-get-your-voice-heard-at-meetings.html.

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