I’m an introvert. This is how I get myself to speak up.
Short summary
Wes shares practical tactics for introverts to become more vocal in meetings and gain visibility at work. He emphasizes preparation, early participation, and effective written communication as key strategies. The article also includes personal anecdotes and useful phrases to help introverts express themselves confidently.
- Deciding to speak up before the meeting starts avoids the internal hesitation loop that usually keeps introverts silent.
- Speaking early in a meeting stakes claim to your point before someone else makes it, contradicting the usual advice to let leaders speak last.
- Writing up ideas in a document lets introverts articulate thoughts more fully than a fast-moving meeting allows, and can circulate to higher-ups as a lasting record.
- Having a few go-to phrases ready gives you an easy entry point into conversation and buys time to organize your thoughts.
Full summary
Wes, an introvert, shares practical strategies for speaking up in meetings and gaining visibility. He emphasizes the importance of deciding to contribute before a meeting starts, which helps avoid the internal debate that often leads to silence. Speaking early in a meeting can also be beneficial, as it prevents others from stealing your points. This approach counters the common advice that leaders should speak last, particularly when power dynamics may discourage less senior team members from voicing their opinions.
Writing is another powerful tool for introverts. Wes suggests drafting documents to articulate ideas that might be tough to express in a fast-paced meeting. A well-crafted document can circulate beyond the immediate meeting, reaching higher-ups and creating a lasting record of your contributions. He also recommends having go-to phrases ready to help jump into conversations, as they can buy you valuable time to formulate your thoughts.
When it comes to virtual meetings, Wes notes that platforms like Zoom can actually ease some of the anxiety of public speaking. Adjusting your physical setup for better lighting and camera angles can enhance your confidence. He also highlights the effectiveness of accountability, suggesting that colleagues can support each other by nudging one another to speak up in meetings. These tactics aim to empower introverts to share their insights and achieve greater recognition in their work environments.