I Hate Speaking up in Meetings… This Is What I Do Instead

I have to admit, that speaking up in meetings is not everyone.

Want to speak, but can’t. Image created by Freepik

We all have that one colleague who keeps asking irrelevant questions in meetings. We dread them for extending the meeting time. But, you might have also observed that they do get promoted. More than the person who is more efficient, takes up tasks, does more work but doesn’t speak up.

Like it or not, those with people skills are preferred in corporates.

Let’s assume you are one of those like me who doesn’t like speaking up in meetings. Trust me, we are the majority.

I did the following to make up for my inability to speak:

1. Sending detailed status emails

At the end of the week, I make sure to send a detailed status email to my team and manager on what I have done during the whole week. By making it a habit every week, it usually goes unnoticed but comes in handy for you to review the work you have done.

2. Setting up one on one with the manager

No one is going to magically notice the work you are doing. You have to put yourself forward, be it in meetings or anywhere else. So, ASK. Ask what you need to do to get promoted or get that raise. Follow up with it and show progress. Start acting like the role that you want to take up, not the one you have been assigned.

3. Managing a work journal with all the progress made

In addition to the status e-mails, manage a personal work journal and review it monthly. Check what progress you are making toward your goals. You need to be as objective as possible. Even the smallest work counts.

4. Reviewing the progress made

Share your progress with your manager regularly and ask for feedback. All this is to show that you are not waiting around for someone to make you do things.

5. Showing the skills if not speaking up

Show quality in your work and stand out.

I always use the French Fries strategy.

Whenever you submit a document/ design/ anything, always add something that was not expected and show that you have gone above and beyond.

6. Changing with time

Usually, people are more apprehensive about talking in new teams. As time goes on, they get comfortable with their teammates and start speaking up.

It can happen to you as well and you might start speaking up. That’s great!

But, do follow the strategies mentioned here so you are always objective and not just speaking with words but showing it in your actions.