How to Speak Up and Be Heard in Any Room

We’ve all been there—you have a brilliant idea, but halfway through sharing it, your voice trails off, someone talks over you, or it gets brushed aside.

Speaking up isn’t just about volume—it’s about presence. And presence is built before, during, and after you speak.

🔍 Why You’re Not Being Heard
Sometimes, the problem isn’t the quality of your ideas—it’s the delivery.
If you rush, apologize, or downplay your points, you unintentionally signal that your ideas are optional. Leaders speak as if their contributions are essential—because they are.

🎯 The “Listen, Link, Lead” Framework

1. Listen First
   Gain context before speaking. People are more receptive when they feel heard.

2. Link to the Bigger Picture
   Connect your point to team goals or company priorities. This positions your idea as a contribution, not a distraction.

3. Lead with Confidence
   Use clear, direct language. Avoid fillers like “just,” “maybe,” or “I think.”

💡 Client Story
One client, a talented data analyst, never spoke in meetings for fear of sounding “off.” After practicing the “Listen, Link, Lead” method, she pitched a dashboard redesign that ended up saving her team 10 hours a week.

💬 Final Word
Your voice is your leadership signature. Don’t hide it—hone it.