Introducing the How an Executive Assistant Can Say No Template—What to say when you want to say no—your essential tool for navigating tricky workplace situations with confidence and tact.
Let’s break it down.
Before the meeting, take a few minutes to clarify your objective. What do you want to achieve in this meeting? What are your personal goals? Having a clear objective will help you stay focused and confident during the meeting.
Consider the people attending the meeting and their objectives. What do they need from you? Understanding their perspective will allow you to tailor your communication to their needs and make a stronger impact.
Think about the role you will play in the meeting. Are you a facilitator, motivator, strategist, or coach? Challenge yourself to bring the most valuable role you can to the table instead of being a passive participant.
Check your attitude before the meeting. If you’re feeling nervous or intimidated, consciously shift your mindset to one of competence, positivity, or can-do energy. Your attitude significantly influences how you are perceived in the meeting.
Plan ahead for what questions you will ask, what you will listen for, and what you will be curious about during the meeting. Active listening and thoughtful questions demonstrate engagement and contribute meaningfully to the discussion.
Lastly, think about what you want to say. Don’t wait until the meeting begins to plan your responses. Preparing your thoughts and ideas in advance will make you more confident and impactful when you speak.
In addition to preparing with OPRAHS, your delivery matters. Pay attention to your posture—sit straight and open your chest to project confidence. When speaking, enunciate clearly and avoid filler phrases like “Does that make sense?” which can undermine your credibility.
Remember, mastering public speaking as an Executive Assistant is a skill that improves with practice. The more you prepare, plan, and practice, the more confident and effective you’ll become in meetings. Next time you’re in a meeting, own your voice and confidently express your opinions.
Public speaking is just one aspect of effective communication. To truly excel, consider enrolling in The Confident Communicator Course. This comprehensive course is designed to help Executive Assistants master the art of communication, from public speaking to building professional relationships and presenting with confidence.
Invest in your development today and become the confident communicator every team needs!
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