When to Speak Up in Transformation Meetings (And When to Shut Up)

Mar 12

2 min read

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Transformation meetings can be high-stakes, fast-paced, and full of competing opinions. Knowing when to speak up—and when to hold back—can shape your credibility and influence as a transformation professional. Say too little, and you risk being overlooked. Say too much, and you might derail the conversation.

When to Speak Up 🚀

When Decisions Are Being MadeIf a key decision is on the table and you have insights that could shape the outcome, contribute. TXM (Transformation Execution Management) is about alignment, and your input could prevent costly mistakes.
When You See MisalignmentIf teams are working at cross-purposes, flag it. Transformation success depends on everyone pulling in the same direction.
When No One Else is Asking the Right QuestionIf something seems off, ask. The “dumb” question often reveals critical gaps in understanding.
When Risks Are Being IgnoredIf leadership is charging ahead without addressing key risks, it’s your duty to raise concerns. Better now than when things go wrong.
When You Can Clarify or Bridge GapsIf different teams are speaking different languages (business vs. tech, for example), step in to translate and connect the dots.

When to Stay Silent 🤐

When You Just Want to Sound SmartIf your comment doesn’t add value, it’s best left unsaid.
When Leadership Is Aligning StrategyBig-picture discussions require careful listening. Unless asked, save your input for execution conversations.
When Someone Else Is the ExpertLet SMEs (Subject Matter Experts) lead their areas. Your role is to listen and support.
When the Meeting is DraggingIf people are ready to move on and your point isn’t crucial, don’t be the reason the meeting runs over.
When Emotions Are HighHeated debates rarely lead to good decisions. If tensions are escalating, take a step back and revisit the discussion later.