How to Speak Up in Meetings with Confidence
You know that feeling when you have something valuable to say, but your throat tightens and your voice won’t come out?
You’re not alone. Many capable leaders hold back in meetings, not because they lack ideas, but because their body doesn’t feel safe enough to express them.
Speaking up with confidence isn’t about being louder or more forceful. It’s about learning to regulate your body so your voice can flow naturally when it matters most.
Why It’s Hard to Speak Up at Work
When the stakes feel high, your nervous system senses threat.
Your breath shortens, your posture tightens, and your voice starts to close.
It’s the same biological reaction that happens when you’re startled — your body moves to protect you.
The result? You stay quiet, even when you know your contribution could help the team.
The problem isn’t confidence. It’s safety.
👉 “Why Your Voice Feels Tight When You’re Nervous” article HERE.
Your Nervous System and Your Voice
Your voice is a direct reflection of your physiological state.
When you’re calm, your vocal folds vibrate freely and your tone carries warmth and clarity.
When you’re tense, your sound becomes tight or small.
The key is to regulate before you speak.
Take one slow breath in through your nose, release it softly through your mouth, and feel your shoulders drop.
You’re signalling to your body: it’s safe to speak.
Techniques to Build Confidence in Meetings
Try these practical steps before your next meeting:
Ground your body: Place both feet on the floor, feel the weight of your chair, and take one deep breath.
Use “One Idea, One Breath”: Speak one short thought per breath instead of rushing through everything at once.
Pause after you speak: It shows composure and gives weight to your ideas.
Start small: Add one clear comment or question per meeting to build consistency.
Prepare an entry phrase: Something simple like “Can I add something to that?” helps you step in without pressure.
These steps don’t just help your voice. They retrain your nervous system to associate speaking with calm rather than fear.
👉 Fix Your Professional Speaking in 30 Days (Even If You're Terrified)
Finding Your Voice Again
Confidence grows from taking action, not striving for perfection.
Each time you contribute, you teach your body that speaking up is safe. Over time, your voice becomes clearer, your breathing steadier, and your presence stronger.
You don’t need to project or perform. You just need to connect.
If you’d like to learn how to speak with calm authority using the Cannon Method’s three pillars — Voice, Confidence, and Presence — start with the Cut-Through Communicator Quiz.
It’ll show you where your voice may be holding you back, and how to change it.