# Speaking Up By:: [[Brian Heath]] 2023-01-20 Knowing when to speak up is a critical skill in organizations. Often "false" leaders speak up too early and often. This reveals how out of their depth they really are. They think speaking up shows everyone how smart and engaged they are. "Look at how good of a leader I am by speaking up, I must be smart." Those who know what is going on see through this charade very quickly. They understand not only how complex the system really is, but also how that system works within the organizational dynamics. Rarely is speaking up often and regularly the way to make a change. The real leader assesses the situation and is patient - waiting for the right moment to strike. These precision strikes often leave the pretenders reeling and uncover a deeper meaning, purpose, or insight. Intelligence and knowledge are not about the quantity of stuff, but the quality with which one distills the essential and vague. Alas, many of us do not possess this skill and ability. This does not diminish our ability to make a difference, solve hard problems, or achieve solidarity with others. There are many ways to influence. If you don't possess the skill for precision strikes in meetings, it's best to be quiet and listen carefully. Being quiet never reveals your hand and allows you to keep playing the game in other arenas better suited for your talents. #### Related Items [[Meetings]] [[Organizational Analytics]] [[Systems Thinking]] [[Leadership]] [[Understanding]] [[Intelligence]] [[Strategy]]