When Leaders Need to Stay Quiet
Most leaders are comfortable speaking up, even when it’s not necessary. But the really good leaders know when to stay quiet. The thought is that power comes from speaking up. However, leadership effectiveness depends significantly on balancing when you should open your mouth and when you shouldn’t. Sometimes the leader that says the least holds the most power.
So, when should you stay quiet as a leader in a meeting?
1. If the reason for speaking up is to showcase your knowledge – If you feel yourself preparing a long-winded contribution, think twice. Your comments might slow down the conversation, especially if part of the reason you’re talking is to show how much you know about the topic.
2. If you’re taking away opportunities from others – When you’re talking, others can’t. If you consistently answer tough questions during a meeting, your team members can’t. Help build their confidence by giving them the floor to share their opinions and learn to think on their feet.
3. If your comments make more sense in a different setting – Some comments are better to communicate one-on-one, especially regarding a sensitive subject matter. If what you plan to say would be communicated just as well, if not better, in an email, save it for then.
But what if you’re a leader who loves to talk or the thought of keeping quiet gives you anxiety? You have to put in the work. Here are 3 tactics to use to learn when to speak up and when to sit back.
Encourage others to weigh in
Actively invite members of your team to contribute their ideas, ask questions, or provide feedback on the topics being discussed. If you find that others in the group aren’t apt to jump in even with a bit of encouragement, voice a different opinion on your own and ask what individual people think about it. Even if it might seem like you are putting people on the spot, it gets them involved and the conversation going.
Listen more than you speak
Once the conversation flows between team members, don’t focus solely on what you will say next. Instead, thoughtfully listen to what’s being said. Once there is an opening to respond, ask open-ended questions and restate key points that are being made to bring attention to them. You can’t do this unless you are really listening.
Decrease the amount you talk
Evaluate yourself in the next few meetings to see how much you actually talk. Then, over time, cut back on how much you speak until you reach a healthy amount for a meeting’s duration.
Some believe that being a good leader means being a good speaker. When in actuality, the best leaders are good listeners. Do you think those in leadership positions should know when to be quiet, or should they always own the room?
Share your thoughts by commenting below.