Embrace Your Quiet Power

In Smart, Not Loud: How to Get Noticed at Work for All the Right Reasons, Jessica Chen offers valuable advice on excelling in the workplace without being loud or aggressive. In this article, we talk about how her strategies empower quiet professionals to stand out while staying true to their nature

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on Forbes

Four cultural reframes for quiet professionals

Chen offers four strategic “cultural reframes” to help quiet professionals thrive:

1. Engage others: Rather than staying silent in meetings, focus on crafting your message to suit your audience. By making your communication audience-centric, you ensure that your words have a meaningful impact. This means actively participating in discussions and framing your points to highlight how they benefit the team or project.
2. Share your work: While it’s common for quiet professionals to immerse themselves in their tasks, it’s crucial to also share your work with colleagues. Look for opportunities to discuss your projects, seek feedback, and demonstrate your contributions. This approach not only showcases your hard work but also builds connections and opens doors to new opportunities.
3. Celebrate achievement: While modesty is valuable, it’s crucial to articulate your successes. Share how your work benefits others, making their jobs easier or improving processes.
4. Manage conflict: Tough conversations are inevitable. Address conflicts by considering the dynamics, such as who is involved and the best timing, rather than avoiding them to maintain harmony.

Addressing quiet culture bias

Chen highlights the “Quiet Culture Bias,” where quieter individuals are often misjudged as disengaged. In many Western workplaces, the loudest voices dominate. Chen advocates for creating opportunities for quieter individuals to share their thoughts and celebrate their achievements, boosting morale and inclusivity.

Advocating for yourself with ACCT

Advocating for yourself is essential. Chen introduces the ACCT framework:

• A – Ask: Clearly state what you want.
• C – Circle Back: Follow up persistently.
• C – Celebrate: Highlight your achievements.
• T – Turn Down: Decline requests tactfully to focus on career-advancing work.

Communicating with impact: The 4A Sequence

Chen’s 4A Sequence helps quiet individuals find their voice:

• A – Active Listening: Join meetings ready to contribute.
• A – Acknowledge: Start by recognising others’ points.
• A – Anchor: Connect your thoughts to previous comments.
• A – Answer: Deliver your message concisely.

Jessica Chen’s strategies offer quiet professionals practical ways to excel in today’s loud and competitive workplace while staying true to their values. By embracing these techniques, anyone can build visibility, earn respect, and advance their career without compromising their natural inclinations.