#OECDWeek–finding the right voice

As some of you may know I have a small and, I’d like to think, slightly unhealthy obsession with the OECD (The Organisation for Economic and Cooperation and Development). I have thus found myself at the OECD Forum for the second year running being able to follow and engage in the debate of the latest economic questions, concerns and developments – well in the eyes of the OECD Countries (34 in total).
In doing so I was not only able to listen I was even able to take part myself. As a lowly student amongst these big names I mull over this idea of “finding a voice” and indeed “finding the right voice”. Furthermore, I hope that this is a place to communicate and we should do that correctly. I have come to several conclusions:

• We all have a voice and it’s important we use it.When I’m sitting there silently during a discussion my inner voice is often saying “yes… but… oh but what if?”. I would then listen to other questions and I started to realise that often I have a valid point to add.
  What’s more, I hope my opinion is just as valid as the next persons because that’s exactly what these forums are for - gathering people of different walks of life to foster and understand diverse opinion. (Or at least that’s what I hope they’re for.)
• Use your voice wiselyAt the same time don’t just talk for the sake of it. What’s valued is the externalisation of your inner voice, not necessarily your voice in general (as lovely as it may be.)
• Don’t waste your breathThe old saying goes Less is More. Never is it more valid than during a forum discussion like this, and it goes for a multitude of occasions.
  I was at one lunch debate where one gentleman gave a fantastic, flowing and theatrical “summary” of his tables work. The only thing the adjudicator said at the end was “can everyone please keep to their two points”.
  Over talking can sometimes stop people from listening.
• Remember to listen
  Most importantly, a good voice is a good listener. Axel Threlfall exemplifies this wonderfully. When he speaks it’s part of the discussion and keeps the ’red line’ going. It’s appreciated and enhances the debate.
  My counter example was also at this lunch debate where one gentleman was giving a monologue at the table. He wouldn’t allow others to take the floor or add their opinion. He didn’t ask and he didn’t listen. It became very evident that people were annoyed. It was not productive.
• Perfecting your voiceSome people are worried about clarity and finding the right voice. I believe those will come in time and with practice.

For whatever the occasion I hope you find the right voice.