Whether your business is operating remotely, or you pampering yourself in preparation for heading back to in-person work, meetings can be stressful for many. It can be difficult to speak in front of your bosses and co-workers, and if you’re looking to make a good impression, that may be lingering in the back of your head.
There are many tips and tricks to stand out during group meetings, but the number one thing to focus on is staying calm. When someone gets nervous during a meeting, everyone gets nervous. Remember that the people you work with are rooting for you to do well. And of course, be on time! Lack of punctuality is disrespectful to everyone else who is giving their time and energy.
Be Confident
Though it’s easier said than done, confidence is incredibly charming and helpful in any business meeting. If you struggle with insecurities when it comes to work, finding ways to boost yourself up can be super beneficial. You can try by giving yourself a little pep talk before entering the room, or practising what you want to say in the mirror the day before. In addition, taking a long deep breath before getting started can do a world of wonders.
You can learn more about how to calm your pre-meeting nerves on BetterHelp.
Be Prepared
Preparation gives you confidence and expertise that is sure to make a lasting impression. Taking the time to deeply understand whatever content you’re sharing will help you stand out as a good worker and someone who gets the job done. When preparing for a meeting, think about what you want to say and what details are the most important for you to share with the group. You can use a roadmap presentation to help you present your project to your group, keeping everyone’s attention on the timetable, objectives, tasks, and milestones.
Remember that it’s normal for people to have questions and a vested interest in whatever you’ve been working on. Be ready to explain more in-depth, and keep notes nearby if it’s possible that you may need them. Most importantly, if you don’t know the exact answer to something – don’t lie. It’s perfectly appropriate to say “let me get back to you on that” rather than trying to cover up the fact that you’re not sure what the answer is.
Listen
One of the most overlooked skills in a business meeting is being able to listen to the other people you work with. People sometimes get so focused on trying to make an impression, that they forget that they are working on a team. Take time in your meetings to check in with yourself and reflect on if you’re giving enough space to the people you work with.
In addition to making an active effort to make space for others to talk, active listening involves showing that you’re really absorbing what they’re saying. Remember to show through your body language and responses that you care what others have to say.. At first, these kinds of skills can be difficult for people, but the more you practice, the more natural it will become. Your bosses and teammates will thank you for being engaged and involved in the conversation.
About The Guest Writer
Marie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health- related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with BetterHelp.com. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.
