For all the quiet Willies, this is how you claim your spot in a meeting

I personally don't have much trouble with it, but I can very well imagine that it can be daunting for people to speak during a meeting. So many people, so many voices, is someone even waiting for your story? The answer is yes. You have that job, and that's why you're in that meeting. It doesn't mean that those with the loudest voices say the most sensible things. On the contrary. This way, you create an environment for yourself that makes it easier to win the audience over.

1. Straighten your back

If you walk in with the body language of a skittish Siamese, people won't quickly ask what your ideas are. But if you walk in confidently (or at least as confidently as possible) and radiate that you belong there, you're already on the right track.

2. Choose a color

Just put on a red sweater or wear red lipstick. Even if you say nothing, you've immediately doubled the chance that people have noticed you.

3. Prepare yourself

Look at the agenda of the meeting. What will be discussed and what can you contribute? Maybe you can unsolicitedly make a small analysis that provides insight into the current situation that the person leading the meeting can greatly benefit from. Diligence has never harmed anyone. Moreover, if your colleagues are happy with you and see that your way of thinking can provide surprising insights, they will be more likely to turn to you.

4. Choose your spot

Where you sit can also help you. So make sure you're on time and sit either opposite or next to your supervisor.

5. Involve your boss

Now that we're talking about your supervisor, involve him or her in your ‘problem’, at least if that person doesn't belong to this kind of person. Say that you find it difficult to speak in front of the group or to rise above the shouting of others. Also, mention that you appreciate that he/she has given you that position and that you don't want to just be wallpaper, but that it might be nice if he/she asks for your opinion during the meeting.

6. Find a buddy

Form an alliance with your favorite colleague. If it's a truly empathetic colleague, you might not even need to ask. They will just help you during a meeting. ‘Could you all be a bit quieter? A has a really interesting theory. Could you repeat that?’ See, then you're in.

happy couple.