power question

[Anonymous]

If you are more eloquent than your boss, coworkers or maybe even clients...is the rule to not showcase this and talk more warmly and in a relatable way?Or use more language that shows that they are higher than you?

I'm working with a diverse group of people who sometimes are not from this country.

Is it better to say less in meetings knowing what you know about people and power?

[Anonymous]

Are you more eloquent or more knowledgeable or both? Nobody cares about your bloviating if there's nothing of substance. But if you are imparting knowledge, go for it.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Are you more eloquent or more knowledgeable or both? Nobody cares about your bloviating if there's nothing of substance. But if you are imparting knowledge, go for it.

Thanks! This is perfect. I am beginning to understand more.

[Anonymous]

First, you need to define what you mean by “a diverse group of people”, as this alone does not equate to less eloquent or less educated. If you think people born abroad where English is their second language are less eloquent, then you must not be well educated.

[Anonymous]

What's the goal of your communication? I use different language and approach in court than with my clients, who are all low income and usually poorly educated. My goal is to be understood, not to show off.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:If you are more eloquent than your boss, coworkers or maybe even clients...is the rule to not showcase this and talk more warmly and in a relatable way?Or use more language that shows that they are higher than you?

I'm working with a diverse group of people who sometimes are not from this country.

Is it better to say less in meetings knowing what you know about people and power?

Two ways it goes when you are the quiet one.
Either people think you are very intelligent, or they think you are shy. Sometimes both.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:What's the goal of your communication? I use different language and approach in court than with my clients, who are all low income and usually poorly educated. My goal is to be understood, not to show off.

+1. In all contexts, the goal should be being understood.

In a healthy work environment, just being good at something won't cause problems. But if you're concerned that you're standing out or undermining someone, trying speaking less and paying more attention and see if something changes.

[Anonymous]

Pick your battles wisely. Does your boss feel you are more articulate and knowledgeable than they are? I would guess not. Either way, they are not likely to be psyched if you jump in and say it “better” than they do.

I would only speak up if there’s a confusion or some misunderstanding if your boss is leading the meeting.

Remember, most work meetings don’t matter, and your boss is the one writing your review, not your coworkers.