Meetings are often places of missed opportunities: 

• “I didn’t want to go against the common opinion” 
• “I didn’t share my idea as we were already under time pressure” 
• “I already had the feeling this would go wrong but no one was open to hear my perspective” 

These situations are even extrapolated for people with an introverted preference. People with an introverted preference are likely more reflective, thoughtful, good listeners and observant. And hence often overwhelmed by people with an extraverted preference. 

It is important to have all perspectives heard and not only from the people who have the courage and confidence to speak up. 

How to help others to have their voice heard 

First and foremost, it is essential to embrace the notion that you want everyone to be heard. So not only the people who tend to agree with you, but also the people who tend to disagree or come up with – what you might perceive as – crazy or unrealistic ideas. 

Second, when you are chairing or facilitating a meeting, you can make it a safe and productive environment for everyone by doing the following things: 

• Only invite people who need to be there. The larger the group, the less comfortable some people will feel about giving their input. If the meeting must be large, try smaller breakout sessions to invite everyone to contribute. 
• Send round an agenda before the meeting. By giving people time to prepare, you'll get more thoughtful responses. 
• Try an icebreaker to get people to introduce themselves, warm them up to talk, and help ease tensions with fun activities. 
• Invite contributions from everyone, so that no one leaves without speaking. Go round the room or ask online attendees to raise their hands virtually or leave comments to signal that they want to speak next. 
• Be encouraging. Pick up on other people's ideas and develop them – but don't take the credit! Sticky notes and virtual whiteboards can help attendees to brainstorm in person and online. 
• Lead by example and set the tone for nonjudgmental, inclusive and respectful behavior. 

Third, when you are participating a meeting, you can help the chairperson or the facilitator to prepare the meeting in the way just described. Your role during the meeting can be focused on inviting contributions and encourage the more silent participants to speak up. The most powerful way of inviting to speak is to ask questions.  d acknowledge and act from a belief that people truly are the team's most valuable resource.