The September 26 “Your Best Next Move” video about boosting participation in team meetings really struck a nerve! Bobbie LaPorte heard from lots of clients that are dealing with that issue, especially during these post-COVID times. So in her October 3 video, she shares some basic tips to help those of you who may feel reluctant to speak up. Your voice IS valuable!
Transcript of Your Best Next Move: How to Share Your Voice and Value in Team Meetings
Hi everyone, Bobbie LaPorte here again with my weekly leadership tip for your Best Next Move, where I help you see continuing curveballs as an opportunity.
Last week this post was about an issue that I have been hearing about lately – and that is the lack of participation, speaking up, in meetings.
I guess I hit a nerve because I received many comments from leaders who confirmed that they are seeing this as well, and the post received almost twice the number of views these Tips normally get.
I shared some theories I have about this last week – most of which are post-Covid related. This issue is still somewhat surprising, and troubling to me because in these challenging times we need to hear all perspectives, all voices, and all points of view to bring our collective best to the complex issues we are facing.
This week, I’d like to share some thoughts on how individuals who are reluctant to speak up, to participate, can think about this.
If you are someone who doesn’t think your opinion is important or wanted, that you don’t have something valuable to add – think again. We all have something to contribute.
The sum of your experience, your specific domain knowledge, and the view that your role – whatever it is – gives you in the company, are all valuable.
This is your particular currency in the organization. And it is your responsibility to share it so that others can learn, can practice hearing and valuing different views and perspectives. And develop the vulnerability to admit they – that no one – has all the answers.
Here are my tips:
- Plan ahead. Look at your schedule for each week and identify a meeting that you regularly attend but don’t often contribute to.
- Look at the agenda and decide where in the meeting you want to speak, to contribute.
- Make a note of what you want to say; write it down. Then do it.
- If you know the person who owns the meeting, you might even reach out to them ahead of time and tell them you want to contribute on a specific item.
There is very little risk to doing this in a meeting you regularly attend. It might be uncomfortable in the beginning, but it will feel more natural with practice, then you can expand it to other meetings.
You have to make the move; no one can do it for you. You might be surprised at the positive response you get…which can change the way you and your teammate’s view your value.
That’s my tip for the week, I’ll see you next Monday.
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