voice

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4 min read

Speaking up to let your voice be heard

 

Your voice defines the value you bring to your work, your team and your organisation. Employees may find themselves keeping quiet and going with the flow as they may be uncomfortable with the attention they draw and any potential conflict that may arise. This is even more so for individuals who are generally reserved.

People may have a fear of speaking up also because they may think that their ideas are not good enough. All these are valid concerns, however, it will help you if you go beyond someone who listens, takes in instructions and ideas and is an executor - to an employee who value-adds, contributes unique perspectives and pushes boundaries. A mindset shift is extremely critical here.

 

pexels-polina-zimmerman-3778619

 

Before we even think about how to speak up more, it is key to think back on previous instances where you remained silent first so that you can address any issues around this aspect:

 

  1. What are some of the reasons you have censored yourself recently? Is it the fear of negative consequences or lack of confidence or concern about whether it is your place to speak up or something else?

  2. Have you spoken up before and how was the experience? Was it positive or negative? Why was that the case?

  3. If you have spoken up before, were you thoroughly prepared before speaking up?

  4. If you have not spoken up before, do you think something would have been in a better situation if you had actually spoken up?
Let’s put this in
work context

 

It is not really just about getting your voice heard - it is also about making sure that whatever that is to be said has value and it is done in an effective way. While there are many considerations that need to be taken into account, we can still start small, and this is how we can do it:

  1. Jot down your opinion somewhere whenever it occurs, especially if it pops up in a meeting or conversation that you may lose quickly.

  2. Read through what you have typed and make sure it showcases how your comment may bring value to others/organisation.

  3. Highlight in your comment that what you are proposing may not be the most well-rounded solution yet but also convey that you hope that this can spark further conversations for better outcomes.

  4. Send it to the relevant people on any computer-mediated communication channels or schedule a call to express it verbally.

 

 

“

When we speak we are afraid our words will not be heard or welcomed. But when we are silent, we are still afraid. So it is better to speak.

 

– Audrey Lourde

 

 

 

 

It is helpful to think about how to set better goals and how goal setting motivates you.

Here are other suggested readings for you:

 

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