You’ve been there—you say something in a meeting, and it gets ignored.
Minutes later, someone else repeats it, and suddenly, it’s a brilliant idea.
The problem isn’t just what you’re saying—it’s how you’re saying it.
If you want people to listen, you need to speak with impact.
Why Are You Being Ignored?
Early in my career, I struggled to get my voice heard. I had ideas, but they got lost in conversations. It wasn’t until I changed how I spoke—clear, confident, and intentional—that people started paying attention.
I learned that being heard isn’t about talking more—it’s about talking better.
The Science of Speaking with Impact
🔹 Harvard Business Review found that the most influential communicators use brevity, clarity, and strong body language.
🔹 Amy Cuddy (Presence) explains that confidence and authenticity make people more likely to engage with what you’re saying.
🔹 Studies show that storytelling increases message retention by up to 22% compared to facts alone.
Want to make sure people actually listen when you speak? Here’s how:
5 Ways to Get People to Listen
✅ Start Strong – People decide in seconds whether to tune in. Open with something compelling—a statistic, a question, or a bold statement.
✅ Be Clear and Concise – Say what you need to say, then stop talking. The more you over-explain, the less impact your words have.
✅ Use the Power of Storytelling – Facts inform, but stories persuade and make ideas stick. Frame your message with a short, relevant story.
✅ Own Your Space – Confident posture, eye contact, and presence command attention before you even open your mouth.
✅ Ask for Engagement – If you want people to listen, make them part of the conversation. Pause. Ask a question. Let them process your words.
Want to Improve Your Speaking Presence?
🔹 Watch this TED Talk on how to speak so people listen: Julian Treasure’s TED Talk: “How to Speak So That People Want to Listen”
🔹 Read more about how effective leaders communicate clearly: Harvard Business Review – “How to Communicate with Greater Impact”
Final Thought: Your Words Have Power—If You Use Them Well
If you’ve ever felt unheard, remember: communication is a skill, not a talent.
You can train yourself to speak with impact—and when you do, you’ll notice people start paying attention.
🚀 What’s one communication trick that’s helped you be heard? Drop it in the comments!
🔥 What’s Next?
Looking to sharpen your leadership communication? Check out more content here:
➡ Linkedin Carousel – Make Them Listen
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