I think there are two things going on with this article:
- People can (and should) learn how to influence and persuade others through written and verbal communications
- People can (and should) voice their opinions -- in both a timely and respectful manner
This article talks mostly about #2 above and no question it's very important. It's essential at work, at home, in the community, etc. Be authentic and be heard -- again in a timely and respectful manner.
However I've always been more of a believer in mastering #1 above. Too often people say what's on their mind and do it in such a way that is either confusing, untimely, offensive or disrespectful, wrong audience, or otherwise counter to achieving what they want to achieve. Communication and influence are essential components of leadership. And I don't just mean "convincing people to do what you want" but rather "persuading people to do what you believe is the right or necessary thing to do."
I suppose this concept of "Sciamachy" (or role-playing or shadow-boxing, whatever you want to call it) from the article can work. There are also some excellent courses online and in-person you can explore. Google "communicating up down and across the organization" for more info on that.
“The idea is to put ourselves in hypothetical situations when the stakes are low so we’ll have both the courage and the skills at hand when the time comes to speak up.”
https://www.fastcompany.com/90892458/try-this-simple-technique-to-challenge-an-idea
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