- 16 Feb 2025
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Speaking up in meetings can be challenging, especially if you’re naturally introverted or struggle with confidence in a room full of colleagues. However, your voice matters, and contributing effectively can enhance your professional presence, build credibility, and ensure your ideas are heard. Here are some key strategies to give you more confidence and impact speaking up in meetings.
1. Speak early to leverage the ‘primacy effect’
The primacy effect is a psychological phenomenon where the things we hear or see first tend to stick with us. This means that if you speak early in a meeting, people are more likely to remember and reference your ideas throughout the discussion.
You may have noticed that the idea put forward first in a team meeting is often cited and built on by others as the meeting continues – meaning the person who put forward that idea is repeatedly referenced and given credit.
Even if you don’t get to express your idea first, it’s still a good idea to be one of the first voices in the room (or Teams call!). Speaking up early sets the tone for your participation and makes it easier to continue contributing. This can be as simple as asking a social question at the start of the meeting or clarifying a point in the agenda early on.
2. Prepare in advance
Confidence often comes from preparation. Before the meeting:
- Review the agenda and identify key topics where you can add value.
- Write down a few points or questions you’d like to bring up.
- Practice articulating your ideas clearly and concisely.
Knowing what you want to say ahead of time helps reduce anxiety and ensures you contribute meaningfully.
3. Use body language to signal confidence
How you present yourself can influence how others perceive your contributions. Even before you speak, practice strong nonverbal communication in online or in-person meetings:
- Sit up straight and maintain open body language.
- Make eye contact with the speaker or other participants.
- Nod or smile in agreement to show engagement.
When you do speak, use a steady tone and avoid trailing off at the end of your sentences. This helps project confidence, even if you feel nervous.
- Build on others’ ideas
You don’t always have to introduce a brand-new concept to make an impact. You can also contribute by building on someone else’s idea. Try phrases like:
- “I really liked what [Name] said about X, and I’d add that…”
- “Building on that point, another perspective could be…”
- “That’s a great suggestion and perhaps we could also consider…”
This keeps you engaged in the conversation and positions you as an active participant. Asking insightful questions is another great way to engage and show you are actively listening and contributing to the discussion.
5. Reframe negative self-talk
Often what holds people back from contributing in meetings is their negative self-talk undermining their confidence. If you often worry about whether your input is valuable, try reframing your inner dialogue. Instead of thinking, ‘What if I say something stupid?’ shift to ‘My perspective is valuable, and my contribution matters’. Remind yourself that your unique insights can provide a fresh perspective others may not have considered. And seriously, have you listened to some of your colleagues?! I’m sure your voice will bring a refreshing change.
7. Practice in low-stakes settings
If speaking up in formal meetings feels intimidating, start practicing in smaller, low-pressure environments. Try contributing more in one-on-one conversations, team huddles, or informal discussions. Over time, this builds the habit and confidence to speak up in larger settings.
Final thoughts
Speaking up in meetings doesn’t mean you have to dominate the conversation – it’s about making strategic, thoughtful contributions. By speaking early, preparing in advance, using confident body language, and engaging with others’ ideas, you can establish yourself as a valuable, impactful voice in any meeting.
Challenge yourself to implement one or two of these strategies in your next meeting. Over time, it will become easier and more natural to make your voice heard.
I believe everyone can develop the skills to communicate confidently and effectively – in team meetings and in any other context. My team away days and personal development workshops are designed to help you enhance your presence and build your professional credibility and confidence as individuals and teams. Do get in touch if you want to discuss organising a lively, empowering event for your team.