Introduction: What You’ll Learn
This simulation helps you coach a teammate who’s capable but quiet — someone who might not realize the impact they’re already having. The goal is to highlight their strengths, encourage participation, and build momentum.
You’ll practice:
- Naming strengths they may not see in themselves
- Creating safe space to reflect on confidence blockers
- Suggesting low-stakes ways to practice speaking up
- Reframing hesitance as something to grow through, not fix
Step-by-Step Simulation
Scene 1: Opening with Encouragement
You (Manager):
"Hey — I wanted to check in on something I’ve been thinking about. You’ve been doing really solid work lately, and I wonder if you’re giving yourself enough credit."
Teammate (Riya):
"Oh — thanks. I guess I’ve just been keeping my head down."
You:
"Totally fair. I’ve noticed you bring really thoughtful ideas, but sometimes stay quiet in meetings. Just curious — is that intentional, or more of a comfort thing?"
Scene 2: Exploring Confidence Gaps
Riya:
"It’s probably a mix. I just don’t want to say the wrong thing. I’m still kind of finding my voice."
You:
"That makes total sense. And I think your voice is already adding value — I’ve seen teammates reference your ideas even when you say them quietly or in 1:1s. Is there anything that might make it a little easier to speak up?"
Riya:
"Maybe knowing the idea isn’t dumb, I guess. Or if I knew people actually wanted to hear from me."
You:
"Totally get that. And for what it’s worth — people do. I do. One thing we could try is carving out space ahead of time — like I can ask you to kick off a topic you’ve been involved in. Would that feel helpful or too much?"
Scene 3: Reframing & Action
Riya:
"I think that would help. It gives me a reason to speak up."
You:
"Awesome. I also want you to know that showing confidence doesn’t mean having all the answers — it’s more about being willing to take space. You’ve totally earned that space."
Riya:
"Thanks — I’ll give it a shot."
You:
"Glad you said that — I know it’s not always easy to talk about. We’ll check in again soon — just want to make sure it’s feeling good for you. We’ll figure out a pace that works for you."
Mini Roleplay Challenges
Challenge 1:
Riya insists she’s just quiet by nature and doesn’t want to change.
- Best Response:
“That’s totally okay — this isn’t about changing who you are. It’s just about making sure your ideas don’t get lost.”
Challenge 2:
Riya says she doesn’t feel senior enough to speak up.
- Best Response:
“You don’t have to be the most senior to contribute. A lot of your input has already shaped things.”
Challenge 3:
She agrees in the moment but pulls back again later.
- Best Response:
“Totally normal — this stuff takes time. Let’s just keep checking in and trying small steps.”
Optional Curveball Mode
- Riya compares herself to louder teammates and feels outmatched.
- She had a negative past experience with public speaking or feedback.
- She overcompensates and becomes performative or anxious.
Reflection Checklist
Encouragement & Support
- Did I name real strengths she might not see?
- Did I avoid turning it into a fix-it conversation?
Safety & Permission
- Did I give her a way to participate comfortably?
- Did I reinforce that speaking up is about value, not volume?
Momentum & Follow-Up
- Did we agree on a low-pressure next step?
- Did I commit to checking in again?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Pressuring someone to “be louder” without support
- Equating confidence with constant speaking
- Ignoring the strengths that already exist
- Making it a one-time pep talk without follow-up