Assertiveness in Meetings: Making Your Voice Heard
We’ve all been in meetings where we leave thinking, “I should have spoken up.” Hesitation, fear of being dismissed, or being overshadowed by louder colleagues can make you feel like your contributions are going unheard. However, meetings are one of the most powerful places to showcase your expertise and influence decisions if you can strike the right balance between assertiveness and approachability.
Assertiveness isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room. It’s about communicating clearly, respectfully, and with confidence so your unique perspective is valued.
So, how can you make your voice heard in meetings?
Prepare with Intention
When you walk into a meeting with clarity, it boosts your confidence. Plan ahead to give yourself the best chance of adding something of value. Review the agenda in advance and decide where you can (or want to) contribute.
Jot down key points, examples, or questions you can ask so you don’t freeze in the moment. Preparation not only helps you speak with authority but also ensures your contributions are relevant and impactful.
Use Confident Body Language
Your presence and appearance often speak before your words do. Are you making the right impression? Are you sitting upright, making eye contact, and avoiding shrinking into your chair?
When you’re ready to speak, lean in slightly and project your voice. Non-verbal cues can help signal to others that what you’re about to say is worth listening to. With many meetings now online, it’s more crucial than ever to use body language cues to ensure you get your chance to speak. Platforms like Zoom now have the ‘raise hand’ feature, but if that isn’t available, think about how you’ll jump in when the time is right.
Start Strong and Be Clear
Instead of over-explaining or apologising, begin with a clear statement. Here are a few examples you can try:
“I’d like to suggest…”
“From my experience, I believe…”
“I see another perspective we could consider…”
Leading with clarity supports your words as valuable rather than tentative.
Balance Assertiveness with Approachability
Assertiveness without adding a layer of warmth can come across as aggressive, and this doesn’t build lasting and loyal relationships in the workplace. Aggressive people often dominate others and say what they want without thinking about the consequences. Approachability without confidence, on the other hand, can make you seem hesitant. The sweet spot lies in combining conviction with curiosity.
“Curiosity may get you started, but conviction will keep you going.”
Having firm beliefs can be an excellent grounding point for any team leader, but they must also be open to learning and new perspectives. For example, share your point of view firmly, but invite discussion:
“Here’s what I think would work best. What are your thoughts?”
“I’d recommend we prioritise this step. Does anyone see it differently?”
This demonstrates leadership while allowing for collaboration.
Back Yourself with Evidence
When possible, support your ideas with statistics, data, case studies, or outcomes. When you provide evidence, it strengthens your credibility and strengthens your position even in the face of opposition.
Practice Outside the Meeting Room
Everyone remembers the old proverb, ‘practice makes perfect’. Like any skill, assertiveness and confidence improve with practice.
If you’re building your confidence around speaking up, try starting with something small. Contribute to small team meetings, colleague discussions, or even social settings. Each step builds confidence for when it really counts. Ask questions and make the first move.
Remember to lean on people like your mentors or business coach who can help push you.
Assertiveness in meetings isn’t about dominating the conversation; it’s about making sure your ideas add value. By preparing, communicating with confidence, and balancing assertiveness with approachability, you can make sure your voice is heard, respected, and remembered.
Your voice matters! Your big dreams need big steps, and focusing on building better habits, embracing any mess-ups, and reframing any fears around speaking out will help you achieve those HUGGs (Huge Unbelievable Great Goals).
Here’s a Summary of the 6 Ways to Be More Assertive in Meetings
- Prepare with intention – review the agenda and plan your key contributions.
- Use confident body language – sit up, make eye contact, and project your presence.
- Start strong and be clear – avoid apologising, lead with confidence.
- Balance conviction with curiosity – share your view and invite input.
- Support your ideas with evidence – back yourself with data or examples.
- Practice regularly – build confidence by speaking up in low-stakes situations.
Do You Need Help Being More Assertive or Finding Your Voice?
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