Have you noticed how some people around you are quick to speak up while others rarely talk?

There are plenty of things that contribute to these behaviours. Whether they’re introverts or extroverts, cultural differences, and what’s on their minds.

There is little you can do to change any of these factors.

What you do have control over is your impact on the people around you.

Do you cause some people to shut down or find ways to get them talking? Do you more commonly give directions or ask what they’re going to do? Do you speak more than most in meetings or spend more time listening?

Put your priority on others doing the talking. Don’t single people out, as that’s more likely to shut people down. Instead, ask questions to get them talking.

What would be different if more people contributed to the conversation?

You’ve got this.