Getting your voice heard in a meeting can feel like a challenge. However, in the age of virtual working, though you don’t have to deal with projecting across a large conference table, you will now be facing a range of new issues.
But, don’t worry, getting your audio across to your audience doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few ways you can ensure your voice gets heard when working remotely.
Don’t be afraid to speak up
If you have something to say – say it! Your voice won’t get heard if you don’t try. That said, this can, of course, feel like a daunting task to some. If so, perhaps start by sharing your thoughts over message or email first until you gain the confidence to share your views out loud.
Get the right software
When working from home, it is likely that you will use a variety of tools to communicate with your colleagues. This may consist of instant messaging, emailing and phone calls to keep everyone up to date.
On the other hand, when it comes to meetings, conferences, and the likes, you might turn to a video call or webinar software. Ensure that you have all the necessary software installed, and that your audio devices are working properly – otherwise, you literally won’t be able to be heard.
Utilise all the tools available to politely interject
In these cases, you might find yourself amongst a group of people who are all talking over one another.
To make sure your voice is heard, use all the tools that your interactive webinar software has to offer. This might include things like live instant messaging or pressing a ‘hands up’ button when you are requesting to speak (and waiting patiently for your turn). If your camera is on, you might also mirror this by physically putting your hand up too.
Use introversion to your advantage
It goes without saying that introverts can find it harder to speak up than others – especially with the additional challenges that working remotely brings with it. However, you can use your introversion to your advantage.
For example, introverts tend to be better at observing situations, reading body language and tone of voice, and carefully considering all options before responding. Thus, you can involve yourself in discussions by being the best listener out of the bunch, and jumping in to share your thoughts once you have taken time to formulate potential solutions.
Keep things short and sweet
You don’t need to say much to get your point across. If you articulate things as simply and plainly as possible, in easy to understand language, your voice is more likely to be heard.
And last but not least, have confidence in your own abilities
Every time you succeed, make a note of it and give yourself credit where credit is due. Have confidence in your ideas, and use your successes to evidence your skill whenever you are feeling a bit down (we all have those days!).
By having confidence in yourself, this will come across in the way you speak – and when an idea is presented confidently, it is much more likely to be listened to.
Image: By English: Andrew KrizhanovskyРусский: Андрей Крижановский – Own work, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/…
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