The Most Senior Person Often Speaks Last

The Story
In Doha, a junior lawyer attended a panel discussion with a distinguished senior figure present. Several others spoke at length. The senior figure listened, asked one precise question, and offered a single observation near the end. The room realigned around it. The junior lawyer had almost spoken first. She was glad she had not.

Cultural Principle
In Gulf professional and social settings, speaking order often reflects hierarchy. Those who understand this allow the room to establish its own sequence before they enter it, especially when they are new to a space.

Takeaway
Read the room before you read your notes. If the most senior person has not yet spoken, your moment may not have arrived. Wait. What you say after listening is usually stronger than what you prepared in advance.

Warmly,
Taqua