Have you ever spoken in a meeting and felt that no one is listening? That everyone is just waiting for you to finish so they can ignore your point and carry on.
So frustrating.
I’ve certainly been there.
What’s going on? Why aren’t people engaging with what you’re saying?
It’s entirely possible that it’s down to them, that they’re thinking about something else or worrying that they’ve left the oven on. Or that they are so convinced they’re right they’re not willing to give anyone else their attention.
But it’s also possible that you’re making one of a number of mistakes that mean you’re not having the impact and influence that you want.
If you want a full rundown, join me for a free webinar in a couple of weeks.
But read on for a few things you might want to watch out for.
If you feel people disengaging when you’re trying to make a point, ask yourself:
Are you speaking for the sake of speaking?
It’s very easy to fall into a trap of giving an opinion on everything, either because you want to look like you are across everything (that was me) or because you can’t stand an empty silence (also me).
But the best way to demonstrate your knowledge and skills is to stick to your strengths. If the matter being discussed doesn’t affect you, don’t feel pressure to have an opinion. If you want to have a reputation as someone with something useful to say, make sure that what you’re saying is genuinely useful.
Are you offering a solution?
It is very easy to point out issues or potential problems. It’s very easy to tell someone else that they need to do some more work. But it isn’t the way to build influence.
Trust at work is built on a sense that we are working together toward the same goal. So if you are pointing out pitfalls make sure you are also offering a solution - or at least a next step. It will mean people will welcome your input rather than seeing it as an obstacle to be overcome.
Does it feel personal?
Related to this is the need to make sure that you are clear how your contributions are part of the bigger picture. If you’re reporting back on your team’s success, how does it benefit other departments? If you’re raising a concern, why is this is important for the overall objectives? Your contributions should never feel that they are all about you.
In a hybrid world it is even more imortant to think about how we behave in meetings and the impact that it has. Because for many of our colleagues it might be the only time they see or interact with us.
That’s why we need to make sure we use them as an opportunity to build trust and demonstrate our strengths.
Building your profile in a hybrid role - free webinar
For more insights into building your profile in a hybrid role, join me for a FREE webinar on Tuesday 20 February.
I’ll be exploring how to boost your personal brand, influence effectively and make the impact you want.
A recording will be sent to everyone who registers, but it you can make it on the day there is the option to stay on for a group discussion, or to ask questions.
I’d love to see you there. Please feel free to share with friends and colleagues, too.