Communicating to Be Heard

Have you ever been frustrated because you do not feel heard? Usually, a person gets frustrated with others when they feel they are not being listened to. However, there are things you can do to help get the attention you deserve. To start with, you need to believe you have something of value to offer. You likely have knowledge related to the topic but often people fail to comment because they believe others have more to say. Ironically, the best leaders understand that everyone has a helpful perspective, and they need to create opportunities or a psychologically safe environment where people feel safe to speak up.

You can still work to be seen as someone who has something to offer. First, start to become more self-aware about how you show up. If in person, how do you walk in the room? Where do you sit? How do you sit at the table? Do you sink down in your chair or sit up and make good eye contact? Next, if you have something to say, how you say it is as important as what you say. Often people will say excuse me before they speak or frame their comments with a statement that minimizes what they are about to say. For example, I have heard people say, “This is probably a wrong approach” or “This might be a silly suggestion, but ….” Never put yourself down when you speak, instead use a confident tone and frame what is important for people to hear. “In an effort to improve the service our clients are receiving; it is important that we ….”

Another good way to grab a leader’s attention is to ask thought provoking questions. You can say, “Have you given any thought to the impact your decision to _____will have on _____? Then just be quiet. If you have information that will help the leader, inquire if it will be helpful if you share some research or data regarding the question you asked, then follow through. The key is to know your worth and help the leaders see you in a different light. The key change starts within. Pay attention to how you show up then change the way you present yourself. Your first sale is to you!