In managing teams, I am deeply committed to fostering a culture of psychological safety that encourages open dialogue and diverse viewpoints on important topics and decisions. From my personal and professional experiences, I’ve found that even in environments where everyone is encouraged to speak their mind, certain individuals may still struggle to articulate their thoughts clearly. Earlier in my career, I was one of those individuals.
These team members are often deep thinkers and keen observers who express themselves sparingly. Moreover, tapping into the insights of those who are less verbally expressive can add significant value to business outcomes.
Effective communication is undoubtedly critical, often regarded as a hallmark of intelligence and capability. However, this perception can sometimes overshadow the valuable contributions of those less fluent in expressing themselves. Such individuals may possess deep insights but lack the eloquence to convey them. Their ideas are equally important, yet they often struggle to be heard or understood.
To unlock the potential insights these individuals hold, I recommend the following based on my experiences:
- Develop multiple avenues for team input: While brainstorming sessions may energise some, they can be daunting for others. Beyond these sessions, provide opportunities for team members to contribute their ideas in writing or in one-on-one meetings with their manager. Communicating this approach widely and embedding it into your team’s culture is crucial.
- Emphasise the importance of “Focus” and lead by example. These individuals often need time and space to engage creatively. Modern work environments, which typically prioritise speed and constant meetings, can detract from deep thinking. By establishing Focus as a core team value, you create an environment that supports these team members in processing their thoughts and communicating them effectively. My experience suggests that promoting focus benefits these individuals and can significantly enhance overall business performance.
