Why don’t they stutter when speaking in meetings, or start their sentences with “erm, well it’s like, I hope it’s not a stupid question but…”? Why do they never look nervous or get a red, blotchy neck? Why do people listen and not speak over them? Why do people follow their lead?
Well, okay, they have a job title that helps, I’ll give you that. But they also have confidence, authority, and the skills to lead meetings effectively. Whether it’s a team brainstorming session, a decision-making meeting, or even a one-on-one, leading like a boss means owning your place at the table—virtual or otherwise.
Here are a few tips to help you lead meetings like a boss:
1. Think in advance meeting
Prepare what you’d like to contribute, and the language to use. Know your stuff. Create a structured meeting agenda and share it with attendees in advance to ensure everyone comes prepared. Sticking to the agenda also helps with time management, making meetings more productive.
2. Practise out loud
Actually talk out loud, to the camera on your laptop. Saying it in your head is not the same, it’s got to be out loud. Try out a few variations of what you’d like to say. Record yourself on your phone a few times to check yourself. Think of some questions that might come up and practise the answers.
3. Sit up
If you want to exude authority, sit like a leader. Don’t slouch; maintain a posture that conveys confidence and professionalism. Imagine a string pulling you up from the top of your head, elongating your spine. Your body language speaks volumes looking poised can make you feel more in control, even if nerves are present.
4. Go for the gap
Sometimes it’s hard to get a word in, especially in a dynamic group discussion. Look for a natural pause and confidently start with phrases like, “I’d like to add…” or “To build on what’s been said…”. Having a strong start and finish ensures your points resonate with the group.
5. Project your voice during the meeting
When you ‘go for it’ – make it a notch louder than usual volume, with plenty of energy behind it (you’ll get energy having enthusiasm about what you want to say, embracing the butterflies in your stomach to give it that extra oomph).
6. Speak without ‘spacefillers’
We’re talking about the erms/like/to be honest/kind of/sort of etc (as above), they are empty words and dilute your message, and lower your status. Instead, embrace active listening during discussions and take a moment to gather your thoughts. If you’re tempted, don’t…just pause instead. (This might need practice J)
7. Don’t rush to speak
As Dale Carnegie says ‘If you want to be a good conversationalist, be a good listener. To be interesting, be interested.’ Listen to what other people have to say first, then form your opinion. However, don’t wait too long or the meeting will end and you’ll miss your chance.
8. Say something
You’ve been asked to the meeting because your opinion is valued, even if it’s ‘I agree with so and so’… then reiterate with your own spin (briefly). In virtual meetings, use the chat feature to share ideas if speaking opportunities are limited.
9. Look into the lens
When speaking in virtual meetings, you need to look into the camera rather than the laptop screen. Then your audience feels you’re looking and talking to them just as you would face to face. Imagine you’re talking to a close colleague, who’s sitting just behind the lens. Tell it to them with passion, smiling if appropriate, keep your gaze in the lens until you’ve finished
10. Keep a steady pace
Nerves can make you gabble. So put the brakes on, slow down a bit, and pause at the end of your sentences. Own it, have confidence in what you’re saying, trust yourself to speak clearly with intention and integrity. Confidence in your pacing makes a powerful impression, whether you’re in the boardroom or leading a virtual team.
Mastering the art of leading meetings can significantly boost your professional development. It’s a skill tied to leadership, conflict resolution, and building effective communication skills.
Practise at least one of the above, at every meeting. Soon it will all come naturally, and you won’t even have to think about it.
