Dear Rookie,
It’s OK to feel unsure in a meeting. I still do in some. Sometimes you don’t know enough about what’s being discussed. Sometimes you’re not even sure why you’re in the meeting in the first place. And sometimes, you don’t know the people well enough, the team dynamics, or the unspoken agendas behind the scenes to decide whether to speak up or stay quiet. And, of course, the age-old dilemma: do you speak before the Boss or after? 😉
My hacks: Always check who called for the meeting and try to figure out—or outright ask—why they called it. What are their motives, objectives, and expectations? And most importantly, what do they expect from you?
If that’s not possible, then lean on someone else in the meeting you know and trust—this assumes, of course, that you’ve made some friends early on who can clue you in on the unwritten rules.
And if all else fails, just listen and ask curiosity-driven questions—it’s amazing how much insight you can gain by being the most curious person in the room.
But first, don’t panic—meeting dynamics, figuring out how to show up, and knowing your role is something you’ll keep learning and relearning throughout corporate life – its happening to me right now in my new role!
As my movie guru Morpheus wisely said: “You have to let it all go—fear, doubt, and disbelief. Free your mind.” Once you do, you’ll find your footing faster than you think.