Sometimes, when leaders don’t believe in what they are saying, they make it louder so it sounds more true. In the context of a meeting, that can often lead to others speaking with a louder voice, and everyone stops listening.
We were in Belgrade a few weeks ago watching a live news channel and wondering why the prime minister was practically shouting at the news anchor and people watching at home. There was nothing to defend; nobody was objecting to her opinion. Interestingly, we thought she just wanted to be heard and listened to.
The solution: Be that same person in the room, the calm and reflective person who isn’t shouting, by stepping back and listening to what is happening. This leads to curiosity in the group and more people listening to each other.
Do you want to have an impact and stand out above the noise? The best thing you can do is listen to understand; you are more likely to have a human connection.