Speaking your mind – that’s why you are there!

Speaking your mind is an absolute key not just in ensuring people know what you are capable of, but just as much to provide the value your organisation needs you to provide.

1. Adding value

2. Behind closed doors

3. Meetings

1. Adding value

Adding value in your day to day activity by speaking your mind is a challenge for people – Some people don’t speak at all, some people speak too much. Some of the key things to look for:

• It’s not about being right or wrong – it’s not about winning an argument, it’s about finding a solution that can move things forward.
• Don’t look for the perfect solution, if your team comes up with idea’s, let them go with it, don’t add your 5 cents to each and every idea – If people feel it’s their idea rather then your, they will invest a lot more in it.
• Speak your mind AND listen to others – finding the right solution or approach to a problem or a decision require the involved parties input, be positive for anyone’s input, you are not always right!
• Focus on the specific topic, don’t mix in other discussions, don’t start talking outside the subject – keep on track!
• When you bring out your idea, welcome feedback, suggestion for improvements etc, if others can improve your idea let them.
• Remember, if you are the boss it’s your decision in the end – listen and make it – it’s not about votes.

2. Behind closed doors

When you are behind closed doors with either your team or your peers, it’s always okay to discuss things openly, bringing out different views and throwing idea’s up in the air.
However when you leave the room and a decision has been taken, everyone needs to execute the idea as it was their own! Even if you don’t agree with an idea, telling your team so is not just demoralizing for them, it’s also extremely unprofessional.

3. Meetings

Yes, you have been invited to a meeting to share your point of view – If you go to meetings, even standing-in for someone else, share your opinion and ask clarifying questions. Don’t be affright of looking stupid – You learn by doing!

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