Stage 4 · Lesson 3 of 7

Getting a word in, and not being talked over

In some meetings a few people talk all the time and it is hard to find a gap. Useful phrases help: "Can I add something here?", "Before we move on, I have one question", or "I would like to finish my point." Raising a hand, even on video, signals you want to speak.

If someone repeats your idea as their own, you can say calmly: "Yes, that is what I was suggesting, and I would add..." If you are often talked over, mention it to your manager in a one-to-one.

Common trapdeciding the loud people do not care what you think, when often they have not noticed you were trying to speak.

A question to check yourself and an AI practice session come when you add the roadmap to your account. Add it

Resources for this stage

Start with

GuideFree
GitLab Handbook: Communication
GitLab
Practical rules for meetings, video calls and written follow-ups in a remote team

Practise

Soft Skills Engineering
Podcast answering real questions about speaking up and working with people in tech

Keep handy

Loom
Record a short video update when a meeting slot is not enough or time zones clash
One on One Meeting Questions
Questions to raise with your manager when meetings are hard to speak up in

Struggling right now? If you are in danger or thinking about harming yourself, contact local emergency services or a crisis line: Find a helpline (any country), Umang (Pakistan), Tele-MANAS, 14416 (India).