Imagine walking into a meeting where people look distracted, tired, or frustrated. Launching into your planned speech without tuning in to that vibe is not just tone deaf, it’s a missed opportunity to truly lead and influence. If you want to lead better, you have to see and feel the energy in the room first.
Observing the room before you speak
To read the room like a pro, take a moment as you enter. Look around. Notice body language, facial expressions, and energy levels. Are people open or closed off? Chatting or in serious conversations? Curious or defensive? This perception is your compass.
Adapting your message to the moment
Once you have the temperature of the room, you can tailor your message to match what the room needs, not just what you want to say. Based on the mood, it may not be the best day to pitch a new idea requiring a big add to the budget or recommending a complete pivot on a strategy.
Conversely, it could be the best time to do either of those things, but you have to read the room to know that.
A simple leadership habit
Reading the room is an integral leadership skill, but it’s not that hard to do. Try it out or practice it in your next meeting or presentation…before you speak, pause, look around, and really see your audience. Adjust or proceed as needed. Trust me, this is a gamechanger for a leader or aspiring leader.
Are you considering booking Paul Bramson for your next event? Fill out our contact form to start!
Paul Bramson is renowned as a powerhouse on keynote stages and in training arenas. He is widely regarded as being one of the most impactful speakers, trainers and C-suite coaches in the world today. Paul is recognized as a leading authority and thought leader in the areas of communication, leadership and sales boasting media mentions in Forbes, Fast Company, Fortune, BuiltIn, Yahoo, and MSN. With an extensive 25-year tenure, Paul has continually ignited and empowered professionals, leaders, and teams across all echelons. His ability to captivate and engage audiences originates from an authentic zeal, unique aptitudes, and an unyielding dedication to professional and personal enhancement. Paul's first book, "Connecting Like A PRO©: Unleash Your Superpower" will be released on June 11, 2025 on Amazon.