In an increasingly distributed and collaborative work landscape, staying informed and connected is key to thriving in today’s hybrid workflow. Jessica Chen Page, an expert in workplace dynamics and author of the book “Smart, Not Loud: How to Get Noticed at Work for All the Right Reasons,” emphasizes the importance of creating an atmosphere where everyone feels heard. She argues that language shifts—like avoiding “but”—can have a major impact on discourse and help create a culture of accountability that encourages respectful debate between peers.
Chen Page asserts that when individuals feel acknowledged, they are more likely to step back and allow others to contribute. This should help create a more natural flow to the conversations, which in turn helps make the overall team significantly better. For example, validating a person’s emotions and then asking a second person to talk opens the floor for a richer dialogue. She recommends using phrases such as, “Taylor, we know you feel strongly about this, but let’s give Eric a chance to speak too.”
And there’s no substitute for using people’s names when they’re participating—that goes a long way in making the space feel respectful and engaged. Chen Page advises, “When you say someone’s name, it creates a respectful environment where everybody feels like they have a chance to talk.” To extend this practice is to make everyone feel seen and heard while inspiring them to share boldly and meaningfully.
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Chen Page has more tips on how to participate meaningfully in their story. She suggests that individuals can enhance conversations by saying, “What you’re saying makes me think of this book I just read…” This proven approach not just enriches the conversation but opens the door to bold ideas.
To maintain a dynamic discussion, Chen Page recommends using transitional phrases to break in. So just as an example, you’d say, “Hey Jenn, can I interject here? These guidelines are intended to protect everyone’s dignity, while still enabling people to share their ideas and reactions.
Plus, Chen Page’s brilliance goes far beyond office relations. She can be found on LinkedIn and Instagram, where she shares valuable tips on improving professional visibility and becoming a more effective communicator.
“Sam, I appreciate your thoughts, but I’d like to make sure others have a chance to weigh in as well right now. Do you mind if we open it up?” – Jessica Chen
Chen Page’s advice fits right in with the idea that everyone enjoys hearing that their ideas are heard. That acknowledgement can make all the difference, paving the way for deeper collaboration and a more productive environment. By encouraging discussion, teams can come together to harness a variety of viewpoints.
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