Sometimes it’s difficult to be heard. You are in the meeting, you offer a good solution, and somehow the conversation keeps going as if you weren’t there. You look down at your clothes, confirm to yourself that you left your invisible cape at home, and sit somewhat puzzled looking for another entry point into the conversation.
Then somebody else brings up the same thought. The idea is so close to what you said it sounds like a delayed echo. The powers-to-be perk up as if they are hearing the idea for the first time and quickly adopt the resolution. You leave the meeting wondering what just happened. How come that other person was heard and your suggestion fell on deaf ears?
Most of the time, this is not due to favoritism but meeting presence. To be heard, especially around seasoned professionals, you have to own the room. Walk into meetings as if you are bigger than your body. Sit tall, alert, and tell yourself you are as valuable as anybody else in that room. Your presence should be felt and your thoughts heard. And, it all starts with how you feel about yourself when you walk into the meeting. Be bold and step into the room like you own it.