I recently wrote a post about having something to say. We should all develop opinions and thoughts about ourselves and our businesses in order to help achieve good things. But that prompts the question, when and how do you present what you have to say?
First, let’s talk about when. We’ve all heard the old cliché, “timing is everything.” There’s a lot of truth to that. If you’re not dealing with an urgent matter, it could be beneficial to think about when you want to discuss it. Some things to consider include:
The mood of the person you will be talking to. If your boss is in a cranky mood, that might not be the best time to ask for money to go to a conference. Just sayin’…
Find when the person is most receptive to ideas. I once had a boss who would walk by my office every morning (really early) on his way to Starbucks. If I was there, he’d invite me to join him. It was a great time to get his attention without interruptions. On the other hand, another boss of mine loved talking in the car on the drive home. Figure out what works for your situation.
Also, don’t forget the opportunities a ‘meeting after the meeting’ can present. It’s amazing how sometimes people will be receptive to ideas once they leave the boardroom and are in a more relaxed setting. And no, I’m not suggesting you ply your boss with alcohol to help your cause. Just remember – when people don’t feel the pressure of a structured meeting, they might be more willing to listen and engage.
Now, think about your message. What’s the main point you’re trying to convey? If it’s simple, you might be able to introduce it at a meeting or during a casual conversation. If it’s complicated, maybe all you want to ask for is an opportunity to present your thoughts. I’ve seen ideas get completely shot down because people launched into a full-blown, detailed, lengthy conversation when they should have asked for the ability to be heard – whether that’s at another meeting or via a written proposal.
The last thing to consider is whether or not you need some support for your thoughts before sharing them with senior leadership. Yep, it’s called buy-in. Maybe ask a few colleagues to hear you out and get their support. If a couple of co-workers like it – great! They might even have some suggestions to make it better. And, if no one is jumping on the bandwagon with you…ask yourself why. Maybe it’s time to re-think.
As a manager and leader, I’m sure you have plenty to say to improve your department and business. Finding the right words and the right time to express your ideas, will go a long way in your success.
But be prepared. Even the best ideas get turned down every once in awhile. Hmm…do you think there’s another post? Stay tuned.
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Bonnie Kavanagh RN says
I just “found this site” via a Tweet from someone I follow. Very nice, and a great article, thank you. I do like your points. As for me, the speaker, I have that issue of a contrived meeting and getting choked up. For the speaker, as well as the guest, these are great points; the “one on one” of dialogue is easiest.
I have bookmarked your site for my next after 5:00 quiet time of Entrepreneurial-at-home dialogue.
hr bartender says
Thanks for the comment Bonnie. Good point about contrived meetings. Our time is much too valuable.
Kevin W. Grossman says
Depending on what you want to communicate (ideas, formal business plans, etc.), it’s definitely important to get feedback first from inside, even outside, the organization — whether you’re the employee wanting to talk with your manager, or a manager needing to speak with staff, or a CEO needing to speak with the company.
You also nailed the communication method without really stating it — face-to-face and/or live virtual communication is key when at all possible — whether it’s on the fly after another meeting or conference, or a scheduled meeting. That’s why I feel it’s important to have regularly scheduled check-in’s with staff.
I’ve experience too many times (me included) when the content and tone of the written word was misunderstood, leading to bigger communication issues.
Ack. Too many times.
hr bartender says
Thanks for commenting Kevin. I agree the inflexion of a person’s voice cannot compare to a emoticon. 😉
BenjaminMcCall says
Meeting after a meeting or even with ‘individuals’ before a meeting can be great to help prepare them for what to expect and their role and/or contribution. It can also help clarify what needs to be done or accomplished.
Good thoughts Bartender. Looking forward to my next glass 🙂
hr bartender says
Thanks for the comment Benjamin. There’s so much that can be said about the advantages of creating buy-in and being more inclusive. It’s unfortunate when you see good ideas not get the consideration they deserve because the message wasn’t circulated enough prior to the meeting.
Jessica Garvar says
Wow! great post and sooooooooo timely! I have been working on this a lot lately and am thrilled at how my communications have greater success when I take a deeper look at the intricacies that can effect reactions such as what you shared. I love your first comment on thinking about the other person’s mood. This is so critically important and can make all the difference in the world. I also agree tremendously to dig deep and figure out the best time to talk with your boss or whomever; drive times are the best times my friend!…with a head peice that is of course! 🙂
Thanks Sharlyn! Great post! 🙂
hr bartender says
Thanks for the comment Jessica. I’ve found over the years that my ideas are received so much better when I take the time to think the “when” through.