Finding Your Voice: 

15 Ways to Build the Confidence to Speak Up

You may know this somewhere in your mind or have known it in the past, but let this serve as a good reminder:

Speaking up — whether in a meeting, during a presentation, or even in casual conversation with colleagues — doesn't always come naturally. In fact, public speaking remains one of the most common fears. But staying silent can come at a cost. Your ideas, questions, and perspective matter. They help move things forward, spark collaboration, and shape how you're seen.

If the voice in your head says, "What if I say the wrong thing?" or "Everyone else probably already knows this," — you're not alone. So many of my clients — smart, talented, thoughtful people — struggle with this too. But those thoughts don't serve you. But those thoughts aren't helping you.

The goal isn't to become the loudest voice in the room — it's to feel comfortable using your voice when it counts.

Here are 15 gentle, practical ways to build that confidence and speak with more ease and intention:

1. Start Small

Share your thoughts with a trusted colleague before speaking in a group. Practice helps build comfort.

2. Notice When It Is Easy

Think of a time you spoke up without hesitation — with a friend, a family member, a teammate. What was different?

3. Write It Out

Jot down what you want to say ahead of time. Reading from notes is totally fine and helps clarify your thoughts.

4. Find Low-Stakes Settings

Practice in less intimidating spaces first — smaller groups, casual chats, even social situations.

5. Know Why Your Voice Matters

What's at stake if you stay quiet? Who could benefit from hearing what you have to say?

6. Action First, Confidence Follows

Confidence often comes after you act — not before. Speaking up (even nervously) builds it.

7. Visualize Success

Picture yourself speaking clearly and being heard. A small mental rehearsal goes a long way.

8. Use Grounding Language

Try "I think…" followed by "Here's why…" This structure keeps you clear and focused.

9. Stick to the Facts

If you're nervous, lead with the information. Let clarity guide you.

10. Be Aware of How You Show Up

Posture, tone, eye contact — it all communicates. Even recording yourself can be revealing.

"You don't have to be fearless. You just have to be brave for one moment at a time." – Unknown

11. Detach From the Outcome

Not everything needs a big reaction. Share your thoughts because they're worth hearing — not to control the response.

12. Borrow a Confident Persona

Channel someone you admire. Speak as they might. With repetition, this can become your own voice.

13. Advocate for Others

Support a colleague's idea or point of view. It gets you talking and builds your presence.

14. Pick the Right Moment

You don't need to speak over anyone. Sometimes your voice is most effective in a sidebar conversation or follow-up.

15. Remember Why You're Here

You're in the room for a reason. Your perspective has value. Start with one clear sentence. Let that be enough.

Final Thoughts:
You don't need to wait until you feel 100% confident. You just need to begin. Even a quiet voice can have a powerful impact — especially when it's used with intention.

Remember: Confidence builds through small, consistent steps. Try one or two of these, see what shifts, and be kind to yourself along the way.

If something resonates — or if you're curious about how this could apply to your specific situation or team — feel free to reach out. I'm always happy to talk voice, presence, and communication.