Mastering Meetings: When Can You Confidently Go Off-Script?
Navigating the world of Audit meetings can be quite the challenge, especially if you’re in a senior position with a few years under your belt, like myself. With over three years of experience in a Fortune 100 company, I still find myself heavily relying on detailed scripts or meticulously crafted bullet points to guide my discussions. Without these tools, meeting days can often feel reminiscent of my very first day on the job.
I often wonder if this is a shared experience among my peers at the senior Audit level, or if it signals a need for me to boost my proficiency in internal auditing. At what stage in your career journey did you feel confident enough to effortlessly navigate meetings without a script? Is it a natural progression, or should spontaneous articulation be prioritized early on?
These questions keep circling my mind as I strive to become more adaptable and effective in leading meetings. Your insights could provide invaluable guidance for those of us still on this uphill journey.
One response
It’s entirely normal to feel the need for structured preparation when leading meetings, especially in the field of auditing, which involves complex and detailed information. Many professionals feel this way, regardless of their seniority level. Here’s some perspective and practical advice to help you on your journey:
Commonality of Your Experience
Firstly, know that what you’re experiencing is quite common. Even those who appear to “wing” meetings often have spent years refining their skills and understanding, which provides them with a confidence that may not be immediately visible. This kind of proficiency doesn’t happen overnight; it is the result of repeated practice, growing familiarity with content, and a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
The Role of Preparation
Preparation is key, especially in roles like auditing where precision is crucial. Using a script or bullet points is not a crutch; it’s a vital tool for ensuring you convey necessary information accurately and confidently. Many experienced professionals use these aids, even if just as a comfort blanket that they rarely consult. Remember, the goal is to facilitate clear communication, and prepared notes can be a part of achieving that.
Developing Confidence over Time
Confidence to speak without heavy reliance on notes comes with experience. This doesn’t always equate to the ability to completely “wing” meetings, especially in technical fields where detail and accuracy are paramount. However, over time, a few strategies can help you gain more comfort:
Deepen Your Expertise: Spend time enhancing your understanding of the topics you frequently discuss. The greater your mastery, the more naturally you can engage in discussions.
Practice Public Speaking: Joining groups like Toastmasters can help improve your public speaking skills, boosting your confidence in meetings.
Simulate Real Scenarios: Practice leading meetings in a controlled environment. Role-playing with colleagues can help simulate pressure while allowing a safe space for feedback.
Reflect & Learn: After each meeting, take the time to reflect on what went well and what could improve. Over time, you will notice patterns and areas where you are more comfortable without detailed notes.
Engage with Mentors: Seek advice from those more senior who may have faced similar challenges. They can provide insight into how they navigated this phase of their career.
Understanding Your Own Progress
It’s important to recognize that everyone progresses at their own pace. While some may need less formal preparation as they gain experience, others rely on it indefinitely as part of their process.