How to make yourself heard in meetings

1. Timing is (almost) everything

Choose the right moment to speak up. Try to find a natural pause from your counterpart to introduce your thoughts. If you're dealing with talkative individuals, use the proven 'hook'.

This quick-wit card from our Rhetoric and Quick-wittedness training provides you with introductory phrases to interrupt chatterboxes: With sentences like 'By the way,' 'I have a thought on that,' or 'That reminds me of,' you can find the right entry point.

2. Radiate confidence

Although it's not always easy, try to project self-confidence. A straight posture, a clear voice, eye contact, and active gestures enhance your confidence.

3. Clear and concise statements

You can also get a word in faster when other meeting participants don't feel that you're the one who talks excessively.

Ensure that you make clear and concise statements. The Blitz structure, with a strong statement at the beginning, three clear information blocks in the middle, and a clear concluding statement, appears clear and compact.

4. Emphasize what's important

When you have an important message, emphasize it. Repeat it if necessary. This helps ensure that your key point is not overlooked – but don't overdo it!

If you emphasize everything, you emphasize nothing

You can support your colleagues' statements through active agreement and measured repetition. When you show that you're 'listening' to others, you'll also be heard more.

This means for you:

Meetings are often dynamic environments, but with the right strategies, you can ensure that your voice is heard. Don't let chatterboxes and talkative individuals dominate the conversation; assertively interject and make clear, concise statements that you repeat when necessary.