How To Get A Word In When You’re Not The Loudest In The Room

Maya Grossman
May 29
3 min read

We've all been there—sitting in a meeting, ready to contribute, only to be steamrolled by a dominant voice in the room. You open your mouth to speak, but before you can get a word in, the conversation has already moved on.

It’s frustrating. It can make you feel invisible, undervalued, and unheard. When a pushy boss controls the discussion, it’s easy to second-guess yourself. “Is my point even worth saying?” or “Do I need to be more aggressive to be taken seriously?”

But being heard isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room—it’s about being strategic. Here are 10 ways to ensure you have the opportunity to speak and contribute effectively, even when dealing with a dominant boss.

Before the Meeting

1. Send a Pre-Meeting Note

One of the best ways to ensure your point gets heard is to introduce it before the meeting even begins. Email the agenda owner (or your boss) in advance with a key point or insight you’d like to contribute.

Example: “I’d love to share a quick update on [topic]—would it make sense to add it to the agenda?”

2. Leverage One-on-One Time

If you have a 1:1 meeting with your boss beforehand, use it as an opportunity to mention what you want to contribute. By planting the seed early, they may be more likely to give you space to speak.

Example: “In the meeting, I plan to bring up [idea]. I think it will help clarify [issue].”

3. Get Allies to Back You Up

A trusted colleague can be a powerful advocate. Ask them to help create an opening for you.

Example: “Hey, if I get cut off, can you say, ‘I think [Your Name] had an important point to finish’?”

During the Meeting

4. Use the Power of the First Word

The longer you wait, the harder it is to jump in. Speaking early helps establish your presence in the discussion.

Example: “Before we dive in, I’d like to quickly share a perspective on [topic].”

5. Leverage Pauses and Transitions

Meetings naturally have moments of pause—use them to your advantage. When someone finishes speaking or the conversation shifts, take that moment to step in.

Example: “To build on that point…” or “I’d like to offer another angle on this…”

6. Interrupt Strategically (Without Sounding Rude)

Sometimes, waiting for an opening isn’t an option. If your boss dominates the conversation, assert yourself with a well-timed interjection.

Example: “I’d like to add something here before we move on.”

7. Use Non-Verbal Signals

Your body language can cue others that you have something to say. Raising your hand slightly, leaning forward, or nodding can signal that you’re ready to contribute.