Last week I wrote about how to vocalize LESS often, and I had a lingering feeling that I needed to address the reverse: vocalizing MORE often.  WARNING–jumping to the conclusion that this lesson is only for people who need to speak up more (a.k.a. the introvert) is inaccurate. Even the frequently vocal persons out there can benefit from speaking up at times!

Take me for example.  I have always talked … a lot.  Last week I shared this on my blog: “Yes, I’ve been the person in the room who talks too much.  In fact, I grew up with “talks too much in class” on report card after report card. As an adult, I’m often told I have the gift of gab.”  Even though I’m a talker, I have missed opportunities to vocalize.

In the early days of my career, I sat in meetings with clients, nodded my head, and furiously took notes.  I tried to capture every need on paper that they thought they had.  BUT as a consultant, my job was to consult. This meant sharing my expertise and insights, not just taking notes.  This meant I asking questions and digging deeper. The result of being more vocal? Oftentimes, the training the client thought they needed and the training they actually needed were different.  In fact, this just happened last week.  My client thought they needed a customized training program–they didn’t.  I can help their employees improve their skills without the cost of customized curriculum. In my book, that’s a win for all of us!

10 Signs that you should vocalize MORE OFTEN.

  1. You keep ideas to yourself.
  2. You don’t say anything when you disagree.
  3. You are the quietest person in the room.
  4. Others don’t acknowledge your presence.
  5. You feel like no one ever hears you.
  6. You resent not being heard.
  7. Conversation becomes stunted.
  8. Others look to you to speak.
  9. Your input can make a difference.
  10. It’s your job to speak on behalf of a group or project.

3 Tips for vocalizing MORE OFTEN

Regardless of whether you choose to speak less often or more often, do it on purpose. Be strategic. Choose wisely.


For more on this topic:

Solve the Right Problem

Seek Understanding

Ask the Right Questions