Navigating the boardroom can be daunting. Power dynamics are real, and it’s not always easy to know when – or how – to speak up. But to truly have influence at the table, it’s essential to find and own your voice.
As 2025 winds down and we start thinking about what we want more of in 2026, this is a great moment to reset. Maybe next year is the year you finally go after that board role you’ve been considering. Or maybe you’re already on a board and want to show up with more confidence, clarity, and impact.
Wherever you’re starting from, finding your voice in the boardroom is a skill you can build. And it doesn’t require being the loudest person in the room – just the most intentional. Here are 10 strategies to help you speak up with courage and confidence as you head into 2026.
1. Prepare, prepare, prepare
Before entering the boardroom, make sure you are thoroughly prepared. Understand the agenda, research your topics, and anticipate potential questions. The more prepared you are, the more confident you will feel contributing to board discussions.
2. Know your board members
Familiarize yourself with your board colleagues. Understanding their roles, interests, and potential viewpoints allows you to tailor your messages and anticipate the dynamics in the room.
Building relationships is essential to creating a collaborative board culture. Meet for coffee, schedule a virtual call, attend board dinners – and consider sitting beside a different board member at each meeting.
3. Master the art of listening
Listening is just as vital as speaking. By attentively understanding your colleagues’ viewpoints, you can craft responses that address their concerns or build on their ideas.
Active listening enhances your contributions and helps establish you as a thoughtful, respected leader. Use the beginning of meetings to listen closely and gauge the tone and flow before stepping in with your insights.
4. Leverage nonverbal communication
Your voice isn’t just what you say – it’s how you say it. Eye contact, posture, and purposeful gestures can reinforce your words and strengthen your presence.
Strong nonverbal communication enhances credibility and authority, ensuring your message lands with greater impact.
5. Craft clear and impactful messages
When you speak, be direct and to the point. Avoid unnecessary jargon or long explanations. Clear, concise communication makes it easier for others to understand and respect your perspective.
Organize your thoughts before speaking and tailor your language to your audience. Practice helps – clarity is a skill that strengthens over time.
6. Be curious and ask questions
Asking thoughtful questions is a powerful way to demonstrate engagement and confidence. Curiosity signals that you’re invested and creates space for meaningful contributions.
7. Own your expertise
You were invited into the boardroom for a reason – you bring value. Trust your knowledge and experience. Confidence in your expertise naturally encourages others to listen.
Understanding the unique strengths and insights you offer helps you speak with greater assurance and clarity.
8. Seek out allies and mentors
Identify allies who can support and reinforce your ideas. Strong relationships foster resilience and create environments where voices are amplified.
Mentors can also provide feedback on your boardroom presence and offer strategies for growth.
9. Embrace authenticity
Authenticity builds trust and connection. When others see you as genuine, your voice carries more weight.
10. Reflect and seek feedback
After meetings, reflect on your contributions. What resonated? What could be improved? Seeking feedback from trusted colleagues offers valuable insight and supports continued growth.
Finding your voice in the boardroom requires preparation, confidence, and intentional communication. By honing these skills, you ensure your insights are heard, respected, and impactful.
Remember: your voice matters. By finding and asserting it around the table, you can drive meaningful change in any boardroom setting.
For more guidance, download Dr. Deborah Rosati’s e-book Elevating Your Board Effectiveness.
