Confessions of an Introverted Businesswoman: Part 2 Take Up Space

Have you ever been in a meeting where you struggled to get a word in? You have a great idea, but the dominant voices in the room seem to drown you out.

Continuing from my last post in the Confessions of an Introverted Businesswoman series, today I’m exploring how to take up space. This doesn’t mean being loud or trying to change who you are. It’s about being present and having the confidence to insist that your voice is heard. There’s a difference and it’s a powerful one.

Take a seat at the table

Let’s start with something simple but significant: your physical stance.

Where do you position yourself in a busy meeting room? Do you stand back, letting others take the seats at the table, or position yourself on the periphery? If so, you’re not just creating a physical distance, it’s also a metaphorical one.

Take a seat at the table and make your presence felt. This simple act can subtly shift both your mindset and how others perceive you. In today’s increasingly virtual world, the equivalent is turning on your webcam. Show up, visibly and intentionally, every time.

Make a point to participate

As an introvert, I used to believe I should only speak up when I had something groundbreaking to say. I still wish that were the norm, but that’s not the world we live in.

Sometimes, speaking up isn’t about having the most brilliant idea in the room. It’s about showing that you’re engaged, actively listening, and part of the conversation. Even a simple comment can remind others of your presence and signal that you have value to add.

Speak your mind

Groupthink is one of the most dangerous pitfalls of collaboration. It’s the phenomenon where people, in an effort to “go with the flow,” avoid healthy debate and settle for the path of least resistance. The result? Subpar outcomes.

This is why it’s crucial for people with diverse styles, including introverts, to share their ideas. Resist the temptation to hold back for fear of judgment. You might have the best idea in the room, but it will remain unheard unless you share it.

Have confidence in yourself

For introverts, speaking up can feel like interrupting or stepping on someone’s toes. But here’s the thing: extroverts don’t think that way. Many extroverts lack the awareness to proactively give introverts the platform to share their thoughts.

That’s why it starts with you. You need to cultivate the confidence to insist that your opinions are heard. Remember, you bring a unique perspective to the table. One that nobody else has.

By Elizabethe Dickens