It is common for some SMEs to attend meetings, sit quietly for an hour, and depart without saying a word. Th is practice may protect the expert from assignments, debate, and contention, but it should not be a habit. In rare instances, experts are paid for their silent actions (the courtroom stenographer and the fashion model come to mind), but these are exceptions. Most corporate SMEs are expected to speak.

Of course, talking too little is far better than talking too much, but chronically silent SMEs serve neither their clients nor their colleagues well. When SMEs withhold comment, they diminish their effectiveness and forfeit their influence. It should be the goal of every SME to speak in every meeting.

In fairness, some of our most accomplished experts are severe introverts. They would rather write code or design products than meet with people. Yet, their employers push them into situations that they did not seek and do not enjoy. Just attending a contentious meeting, much less speaking in one, invokes high stress for the naturally silent SME. They would much prefer that others debate ideas, jockey for political position, or wrestle for power. Aggressively pushing for their thoughts to be adopted is simply not what some SMEs relish.

Unfortunately, many organizations and cultures are making matters worse by routinely dismissing the recommendations of the humble SME in favor of the loudmouths or the braggadocios. In these cases, the SMEs might ask themselves, with good reason, “Why bother?”

Furthermore, our hypersensitive, politically charged cultures are pushing SMEs further into silence. Not many years ago when an SME disagreed with someone, it led to a conversation or debate. Today, it can lead to condemnation and social media ridicule.

There is no easy fix for the power struggles that swirl through corporate environments or social media. Domineering hierarchies and social cues can be stifling for all SMEs, particularly for the ones who loathe debate, contention, or ridicule.

Despite the valid justifications for keeping your mouth shut, there are many reasons to speak, and to do it loudly. Here are two such reasons SMEs should speak at every meeting they attend.

First, silence in a meeting implies consent, agreement, or acquiescence. Being silent tells others that you support the accuracy of what has been said, the decisions that others have made, and the consequences of the course being followed. If you do not tell people otherwise, your presence implies agreement.

Second, it takes only a few words to insert your ideas. A few succinct one word answers or a carefully crafted question can make a huge impact in a crowded meeting. People value the opinion of the SME.

There is a large gap between too much talking by SMEs and too little. Most experts can find the appropriate balance. But if you are an SME who would prefer to remain silent, please remember that your contribution is important, even essential, to the success of your organization. And more important, your attendance and silence imply something even if your words do not. Speak up, not too much, but enough to ensure that your expertise has the right effect.