Many artists are introverts. We crave alone time—space to recharge, get inspired, think our thoughts. Some creative introverts are still social, energetic, and outgoing; but they are usually not dominating. As an art director in the advertising industry, I learned very quickly that it doesn’t matter how smart your ideas are, the loudest ideas are often the ones getting attention from creative directors and clients. That can be frustrating.
It’s one thing to be smart. It’s another thing to be heard.
You deserve to be heard!
So I started tackling my biggest challenge: What do you say in client meetings? What do you say when a client asks a question and you don’t know the answer? How do you speak your thoughts on the fly and not sound like an incompetent recluse? (harsh, but that’s how I feel sometimes as an introvert)
The answer? Scripts.
Canned responses.
Every day we talk colloquially, reusing and recycling phrases, idioms, quotes, and verbiage. It depends on the setting and who we are talking to, but it often come naturally—a lot more naturally than it does when we are put on the spot in a meeting. That’s why it’s hard. Meetings aren’t natural yet. It’s a big group setting that you haven’t practiced enough.
That’s where scripts come in. Yes, literally writing out what to say. And I’ve done it for you! At least for a few scenarios. You don’t have to use these verbatim. You can think through the scenarios that are challenging you most and come up with your own scripts. Ask a friend. Ask your boss. I’ve often asked my creative directors how they respond to certain things and I’ve been surprised at how willing they have been to offer their ideas. You’d also be surprised at how many other people in the industry struggle with the same challenge.
Here are my meeting scripts for creative introverts. Let’s start with the most common scenario:
What to say when you don’t know the answer
“That’s a great question. I’m not entirely sure, but I’ll make it a point to find out and provide you with an answer.”
“Good question. I want to regroup with the team first, but will include an answer in our follow-up email.”
“Thank you for the question. I have some thoughts but would prefer to connect with [Colleague’s Name] first.
“I appreciate your question. Currently, I don’t have that specific information, but I’ll look into it and get back to you.”
Redirecting the Question
“I don’t have the exact details on that, but perhaps [Colleague’s Name] might be more informed on this topic.”
“While I can’t provide a definitive answer, I think this falls under [Related Department/Team]’s expertise. They might have more insights.”
Requesting Clarification
“Could you please clarify your question a bit more? It will help me understand what specific information you’re looking for.”
“I want to make sure I address your question correctly. Can you provide more context or details?”
“Do you mind repeating your question? I want to make sure I’m understanding correctly.”
Expressing Willingness to Research
“I don’t have an immediate answer, but I’ll dedicate some time to research this thoroughly and report back.”
“Let me delve into this area and gather more information, and I’ll circle back with my findings.”
Remember that it’s perfectly okay not to have all the answers. People generally appreciate honesty and a willingness to learn and collaborate.
Beyond looking clueless, here are some more scenarios and responses that can help you navigate meetings with confidence and professionalism:
Asking for Clarification
- “I’d like to make sure I understand correctly. Are you saying that…”
- “Could you please elaborate a bit more on [Topic]? I’m interested in learning more.”
- “Do you mind repeating that? Just want to make sure I’m understanding fully.”
Acknowledging Others’ Ideas
- “I appreciate that suggestion, [Name]. Building on that, I’d like to add…”
- “Great point, [Name]. I was thinking along similar lines, and I’d like to share…”
Supporting a Colleague
- “I think [Name] has a valid perspective on this. Their idea aligns with…”
- “I agree with [Name]’s point. It’s consistent with our goals because…”
Providing Input
- “In my experience, I’ve found that…”
- “I’d like to suggest another approach, which is…”
Expressing Agreement
- “I’m on the same page as [Name]. This approach seems solid because…”
- “I completely agree with the direction we’re heading, and here’s why…”
Expressing Disagreement
- “I see where you’re coming from, but I have a slightly different perspective. I think…”
- “I respectfully disagree. From my point of view, we should consider…”
Summarizing Points
- “Let me summarize what we’ve discussed so far. We’re looking at…”
- “If I understand correctly, our key takeaways are…”
Seeking Input from Others
- “I’m curious to hear what others think about this. [Name], what’s your opinion?”
- “Do any of you have insights or suggestions on this topic?”
Managing Speaking Time
- “I’ll be brief but wanted to mention that…”
- “I don’t want to take up too much time, but I think it’s important to mention…”
Closing Statements
- “To wrap up, it seems like we have a solid plan in place, and I’m looking forward to…”
- “Thank you all for your valuable input. I’m excited to see how this project progresses.”
Read them out loud! Practice and repeat. And definitely adjust them to your personality. We all know there are too many corporate robots and too much nauseating lingo in our industry.
Remember, introverts can be incredibly insightful and bring unique perspectives to meetings. Your perspective matters. You deserve to be heard!