Your partner is stealing your spotlight in a client meeting. How will you reclaim your credit?

1 Assert Diplomatically

When you find your partner taking the lead more than you'd like, it's essential to interject gracefully. Use affirmative language to build on what your partner is saying and then steer the conversation towards your own contributions. For example, you might say, "That's a fantastic point, and to add to that..." This approach not only shows that you are engaged and contributing but also helps you to reclaim some of the spotlight without undermining your partner's efforts.

3 Showcase Expertise

Utilize moments in the meeting to showcase your expertise. Wait for natural pauses or questions that you are particularly equipped to answer. When these opportunities arise, confidently share your insights. This demonstrates your value and expertise to the client without directly confronting your partner. It also allows you to shine in your areas of strength, ensuring that your role is clear and appreciated.

5 Communicate Openly

Open communication with your partner outside of client meetings is vital. Discuss how to best approach meetings in the future, emphasizing the importance of equal participation. This conversation should be constructive and focused on how you can both shine as representatives of your partnership. By addressing the issue directly but positively, you can prevent similar situations from occurring in the future.

6 Adjust Strategy

If the issue persists, consider adjusting your meeting strategy. Perhaps you could divide the meeting agenda by topics or sections where each of you leads different parts. This pre-planned structure ensures that both partners have designated times to speak and contribute, making it easier to share the spotlight fairly and avoid any unintentional overshadowing during client interactions.