The Smartest Person in the Room

Here’s a question for my loyal readers: Why do some people think they must act and sound like the most intelligent person in the room? You know the type; they are constantly flapping their gums (talking) and telling you some inane fact about how good they are and why I should listen to them. This behavior, which I call opera selling, is a stark contrast to genuine communication. It involves loudly proclaiming, ME, ME, ME! In most cases, the rest of the room has already lost interest and mentally, at least, moved on. This approach not only fails to engage others but also undermines the potential for meaningful dialogue and collaboration. Understanding this contrast is key to effective leadership and communication. 

As an entrepreneur and a master business coach, I’ve met many influential and exceptional leaders, decision-makers, and visionaries. I’ve met titans of industry and billionaires, and many of the most influential of this group were the most soft-spoken and cordial people you would ever meet. They didn’t need to proclaim to anyone who would listen to who they were or how smart they were. 

They didn’t need to.

Their presence and demeanor were enough. They had a passion and a fire for their vision, which you could see in their eyes, as well as in how they walked, their vocal tone, and their body language. You just knew they were different in a way that you didn’t need to be told. They carried themselves in a way that you knew or at least perceived that they knew what they were talking about. You could see and hear their integrity. They commanded immediate respect because, in a way, you just knew that respect would be offered in return. 

These men and women also shared the single most powerful trait in the art of “quiet leadership.” They were all world-class listeners. Listening is the lost art in business today. Confident leaders love to listen and understand the needs of their “customer” from that person's point of view. With this knowledge, they could address specific issues important to their specific audience. This approach not only demonstrates respect for the individual but also ensures that their needs and concerns are at the forefront of decision-making. The power and effectiveness of quiet leadership is truly inspiring.

Now, listen closely. You do not need to tell or show anyone and everyone how smart you are, how qualified you are, or how many diplomas you have. Do you know why? Because no one really cares. 

They just don’t care!

The best way to exhibit your value is just to shut up. Listen to what your prospect or customer needs, be prepared to ask questions to fully understand those needs, and then solve only those needs that they’ve told you. They’re not interested in anything else. They want you to listen and solve their issue. If you do that, you’ll set yourself apart from the bluster and the noise of everyone else who is talking rather than asking. 

Sometimes, you can be the smartest person in the room by being very prepared and saying nothing until it’s time for a concise and specific answer. If you do anything else, you become just another knuckle-dragging business neanderthal.