If you’ve ever been sat in your place of work, thinking to yourself ‘There’s a better way to do this’ or ‘If we changed the way we do X it would save ££££’s’ then you are not alone; the problem however, is understanding how to voice your ideas effectively.

Whatever job you have, however high up or low down the pecking order you are, at some point in time you’re going to have to speak up. 

Clear and effective communication, idea pitching, and raising your point in group meetings are all ways to speak up. By paying attention to how you put forward your idea and delivering it with intent, you can help make sure that your audience listen. These are a few pointers to help you master effective communication, and getting your voice heard at work.

Always make sure that you speak with conviction.

Don’t self limit. By this I mean never downplay an idea by treating it like a possibility or a mere suggestion. Never use statements like ‘I think’ or ‘this is just an idea, but…’ or any other disclaimers. Try and avoid filler words such as ‘um’, ‘like’ or ‘you know’, it’s better to have a small silence than meaningless words which dilute the intended message. Be bold in the phrases you use. Replace ‘Do you think you could possibly get this done by....?’ with ‘I need this by …. please.’

Always speak with intention.

Clear speech is key, ensure you are clear in your head the points you need to get across, if you’re in a group meeting address the whole room, and maintain eye contact, especially if you’re pitching one on one. Never be aggressive, but always be assertive when you speak.

Don’t be afraid of pauses, use them to your advantage. As with my previous point rather than diluting the message with pointless fillers, a slight pause gives you time to gather your thoughts and gives your audience time to reflect on your message.

Try to make it a conversation.

Once you have engagement with people, they begin to feel that they are involved. People will quickly lose interest if they’re just listening to a long monologue. Get them to invest and be a part of your idea. Pitch your ideas in a way which invites them to ask questions and learn more.

Always give your audience time to ask questions, this will pique their interest, keeping them attentive and engaged. Remember that the more engaged they are the more they will listen, and more importantly, the more they will retain and take away with them. The more you can engage them, the more they’ll truly listen.

Encourage dialogue; ask for their opinions and participation in the discussion. This will ensure that your voice and ideas get the attention they deserve.