Do you sometimes tend to over-explain and take time to get to the point? When we are too verbose, there is the risk that others will tune out or avoid asking for our opinion.
Being brief and concise shows that you are prepared, clear about your message, and that you respect other people’s time.
Next time you are about to speak up in a meeting or write an e-mail, ask yourself “what is the briefest way I can express this?”
Distill, don’t dilute your message!
PS. Using less time to speak also leaves you more time to listen and learn from others.