Let's not forget that your voice is personal, so it’s no wonder why it can be difficult to separate from emotions when considering how it carries in a room. Remote work, hybrid environments, and even dominant personalities in the room can all be factors that hinder your ability to speak up and own what you have to say.
Often, we tend to shrink ourselves. According to a piece in Psychology Today by Judith E. Glaser, people frequently hesitate to speak up due to fear of rejection. This is something most people can resonate with, regardless of their career level or experience.
Your voice is more than just sound; it represents your thoughts, values, and unique perspective. We need that diversity of thought around the table. Owning your voice means embracing who you are, speaking with confidence, and ensuring your message is heard.
Here are a few of my own tips on how to own your voice.
Stuff I learnt along the way.
1. Know Your Value
Everyone brings value to the room, no matter where they stand in the hierarchy of a company. Recognising the experience you bring and the ideas you have—shaped by your unique journey—can help reinforce your confidence. There is no other version of you in the world, so why would your value be any less exclusive or individual?
2. Practice Speaking Up
The more you do it, the more comfortable you’ll feel with your own voice. As Judith Glaser pointed out, the fear of rejection can be a major obstacle. Get ahead of it by practicing. Mastering communication skills is an ongoing process. One tip a former manager gave me was to squeeze my hands into a tight fist to push the adrenaline around my body—it helps relax you. It was a game-changer for me.
3. Prepare, Prepare, Prepare
It may seem boring, but preparation is key. Reviewing meeting notes and understanding the problem at hand are simple ways to ensure you contribute meaningfully and make an impact. I understand that finding time can be challenging, but even pre-reading can reduce flustered moments or the embarrassment of saying something unrelated to the discussion.
4. Don’t Overthink It
As an overthinker myself, I constantly have to remind myself not to over analyse. Owning your voice is an ongoing journey of self-confidence, self-expression, and being brave. It requires practice, patience, and a willingness to grow. But once you fully embrace your voice, you’ll find that it has the power to inspire, influence, and create change—not just in your life, but in the world around you.
So step up, speak out, and own your voice with pride.