When people are preparing to go on certain game shows, they practice “buzzing in.” On shows like Jeopardy!, proper buzzer technique can be the difference between winning and never getting to answer a question.
In order to compete, you have to be able to hit the buzzer the instant you think you might possibly have an inkling of what the answer is. If you wait until you’re sure, you’re too late.
I bring this up because I frequently coach people who can’t quite get their voices in the room. They have ideas and opinions, but they don’t want to speak before they’re sure.
Two things about this:
- If this sounds like you, assess your work situation. Is your team low-key and accepting? Is your position sound? Then practice offering your thoughts a little earlier than may feel totally comfortable for you. Maybe instead of being 100% ready, speak up at 80% instead.
- If this doesn’t apply to you, if it’s easy for you to speak up, make sure you are inviting others to share, as well. One thing that makes it hard for people to get their voices in the room is that the air time is already taken up by others. If you think you might be one of those others, cede some of your time so that the discussion has a variety of voices.
Buzzing in might be good strategy for Jeopardy!, but it’s not a great practice for collaboration and teamwork.
