Once again, I am caught in an uncomfortable dilemma between speaking and listening. I feel a brilliant idea buzzing in my head, but I’ll let others speak first.
Speaking is undoubtedly important in business. Yet I was surprised to learn that even Whitney Johnson, one of three founders of Rose Park Advisors, is reluctant to “to talk shop.” Her blog “Keep Listening, But Start Talking” provides three suggestions to help women start talking.
- Invert the listen/talk radio
We retain 85% more of what we learn when we actively participate than when we passively listen.
- Talk shop with other women
Speak with other women first to become confident enough to share our opinions in any situation. - Require women to talk the walk
A common problem is that men have started talking before meetings have begun, establishing themselves as contributors and women as listeners.
I agree with her suggestions as I can relate to the problems she identifies – women tend to be better listeners, men usually talk before meetings, and women hardly ever talk shop in daily conversations.
As success depends on both speaking and listening and since talking helps me retain more, I will try to contribute more.