How to Get Introverts to Participate in Meetings: 3 Keys

We’ve all been there. You’re sitting in a meeting and a few people are dominating the conversation. It almost seems like they’re the only ones in the room, and everyone else could sneak out and no one would notice.

And, as an introvert, I’ve heard the questions a million times. Why didn’t you speak up? Why didn’t you contribute anything? Why were you so quiet?

It’s not an introvert’s natural tendency to speak up in a large group. Given the choice, an introvert will gladly stay quiet in a meeting and won’t be bothered one bit. But, I’m also a firm believer that everyone’s input matters. In fact, I think a team ends up with a better result when everyone at the table weighs in.

With introverts in the room, getting them to speak up can feel like pulling teeth. Call on them and you’ll often hear “I have nothing to add” or “I agree with so-and-so.” If you want to greatly increase how engaged the introverts on your team are, here are 3 keys:

3 Keys to Getting Introverts to Participate

1. Send out an agenda ahead of time.

The more time you give an introvert to think about what’s going to be discussed, the better. An agenda gives them time to form their thoughts, research the topics and even gather input from others. Accuracy usually matters a LOT to introverts, so the more time they have to put together a good answer, the better.

2. Give introverts a moment to think.

Even with an agenda, introverts still need a moment in the meeting to think. If others have already spoken, they may need to compare their own response to what’s been said. So, don’t call on the introvert first. Or, after you ask a question, give everyone in the room 30 seconds to come up with an answer. Don’t mistake an introvert’s silence for apathy. They usually just need time to come up with an informed response.

3. Show that you value their input.

Once an introvert speaks up, don’t brush off what they said. Show them – with your words and your body language – that their input matters. Even if you don’t go with their suggestion, thank them and encourage them to keep speaking up. After the meeting, pull them aside and let them know you appreciated them taking the risk.

If you’re an extrovert, I bet you’re thinking we introverts are pretty high maintenance. You may be right! But, there are a lot of us out there, and the goal is to find ways to work together well. These are a few simple ways to set the stage for more engagement from everyone. (For more on this, check out why introverts need to be part of your creative process and why the best leadership isn’t always the loudest.)

Quick Answers

Why don’t introverts speak up in meetings? Most introverts prefer to think before they talk. In a fast-moving meeting, the conversation often moves on before they’re ready to share.

Does this work for virtual meetings? YES. The chat box is an introvert’s friend. Invite people to type their thoughts first, then ask one or two to share out loud.

Introverts, how does this list strike you? Is there anything you’d add? Comment below and let me know…it’s ok, take some time to think about your response. 🙂