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Smart, Not Loud: How to Get Noticed at Work for All the Right Reasons
Ever wonder why the “loud” people at work get noticed, rewarded, and promoted? Do you worry that you need to be loud to succeed at work, too?
Upon entering the workforce, many of us raised with Quiet Culture values— put your head down, just work hard, act deferential, deflect praise— want to showcase our expertise, speak up, and present with confidence; but, in the Loud Culture of our workplaces, we’re not sure how to communicate in a way that feels right. The result? Those raised in Quiet Cultures become overlooked, and the best opportunities pass us by. This was Jessica Chen’s experience when she started work as a TV news journalist, and she felt completely stuck.
In Smart, Not Loud , Chen – who now speaks at Fortune 100 companies, and whose LinkedIn Learning courses have been watched by over 2 million people – introduces a new way of getting noticed at work that’s neither loud, aggressive, or boastful. Instead, Chen teaches readers how to look within to better understand how to show up with tact, and invest in visibility-boosting strategies like shaping your career brand, building credibility, and advocating for yourself. Through relatable anecdotes and scientifically-backed principles, readers will learn
Packed with actionable tips, Smart, Not Loud , unveils a new path to getting noticed at work for all the right reasons. This is the road map readers need to authentically show up in the workplace, and finally feel seen.
Upon entering the workforce, many of us raised with Quiet Culture values— put your head down, just work hard, act deferential, deflect praise— want to showcase our expertise, speak up, and present with confidence; but, in the Loud Culture of our workplaces, we’re not sure how to communicate in a way that feels right. The result? Those raised in Quiet Cultures become overlooked, and the best opportunities pass us by. This was Jessica Chen’s experience when she started work as a TV news journalist, and she felt completely stuck.
In Smart, Not Loud , Chen – who now speaks at Fortune 100 companies, and whose LinkedIn Learning courses have been watched by over 2 million people – introduces a new way of getting noticed at work that’s neither loud, aggressive, or boastful. Instead, Chen teaches readers how to look within to better understand how to show up with tact, and invest in visibility-boosting strategies like shaping your career brand, building credibility, and advocating for yourself. Through relatable anecdotes and scientifically-backed principles, readers will learn
Packed with actionable tips, Smart, Not Loud , unveils a new path to getting noticed at work for all the right reasons. This is the road map readers need to authentically show up in the workplace, and finally feel seen.
272 pages, Hardcover
Published July 9, 2024
179 people are currently reading
992 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Chen
1book9followersJessica Chen is a global communication expert, author and speaker.
She has taught over 2 million people how to sharpen their business communication skills at work. Jessica has spoken at some of the top organizations, including at Google, Microsoft, Mattel, and the United Nations to teach their teams how to communicate and stand out in a global workplace.
Her book, “Smart, Not Loud: How to Get Noticed at Work for all the Right Reasons,” empowers those raised with “Quiet Culture” traits — where deference, humility, harmony, and dogged hard work are praised — to get noticed without being loud, aggressive or boastful.
Jessica is a former Emmy-Award Winning TV journalist and has been featured in Forbes, Fortune, and Entrepreneur Magazine.
She has taught over 2 million people how to sharpen their business communication skills at work. Jessica has spoken at some of the top organizations, including at Google, Microsoft, Mattel, and the United Nations to teach their teams how to communicate and stand out in a global workplace.
Her book, “Smart, Not Loud: How to Get Noticed at Work for all the Right Reasons,” empowers those raised with “Quiet Culture” traits — where deference, humility, harmony, and dogged hard work are praised — to get noticed without being loud, aggressive or boastful.
Jessica is a former Emmy-Award Winning TV journalist and has been featured in Forbes, Fortune, and Entrepreneur Magazine.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
January 25, 2025
I listened to Smart, Not Loud as an audiobook, and I absolutely loved it! As someone just starting my career, I found myself relating to so many points mentioned throughout the book. Although I didn’t necessarily grow up in a “quiet culture,” I could still connect with many aspects of it.
What stood out to me most was the reminder that doing great work alone is not enough to advance in your career. The book emphasizes the importance of actively exposing yourself to the view of your peers and boss, which really hit home for me.
I would definitely recommend this book to everyone, but especially to those starting their careers. It’s packed with valuable insights that will help you navigate your professional journey with confidence!
What stood out to me most was the reminder that doing great work alone is not enough to advance in your career. The book emphasizes the importance of actively exposing yourself to the view of your peers and boss, which really hit home for me.
I would definitely recommend this book to everyone, but especially to those starting their careers. It’s packed with valuable insights that will help you navigate your professional journey with confidence!
September 3, 2024
In Smart, Not Loud, former TV news report-turned-entrepreneur Jessica Chen initially sought to write a book aimed at Asian-Americans at overcoming ingrained cultural traits and succeeding in Western workplaces, but realized her advice was more generalizable, applying to many who personality-wise, gender-conditioning-wise, cultural-wise, or all of the above, may struggle to speak up and advocate for themselves at work in ways many Western workplaces value. Chen uses the terms "quiet culture" and "loud culture" throughout the book. "Quiet culture" denotes environments where hard work and dedication is paramount, feedback is usually circumspect rather than pointed and direct, age and seniority garner respect and younger more junior people hesitate to contradict their seniors/elders, and trying to stand out and promote or take credit for one's accomplishments is discouraged and seen as gauche. "Loud culture" denotes largely the opposite -- cultures where socialization and building interpersonal relationships are valued as much as or more than hard work, where junior people hesitate less to speak up, where feedback is more direct than implied, and where "the squeaky wheel gets the grease" and the people who expect that their hard work will speak for itself in terms of raises, promotions and opportunities are largely left disappointed.
Chen gives some personal examples from her early days in broadcast journalism of when she thought she spoke up and advocated for herself, only for promised opportunities to be given to others who spoke up more loudly and frequently than she did. She also shares similar anecdotes from people whom she has coached, and a passing anecdote or two from people who are from "loud cultures" trying to adapt to "quiet cultures." A lot of this can be boiled down to understanding others' preferred communication styles/cadences and consciously adapting to them as needed -- for instance, understanding if a boss would be annoyed by and think it presumptuous on your part of being reminded about an opportunity you're aiming at on a semi-regular basis, or whether they would welcome the reminder to keep you top of mind as they have too much to keep track of.
As a fellow quiet culture person (probably due to gender conditioning more than anything else), I found this book generally useful and insightful. I especially enjoyed the advice about highlighting personal accomplishments by sharing and enumerating their impact on others, which definitely feels less braggy than ways I've seen my (mostly male) colleagues crow about their accomplishments (many of which were actually not their accomplishments to begin with).
Further reading: other books about work advice I would highly recommend:
by Cal Newport
by Carla Harris (specifically on the role of sponsors vs. mentors and performance currency vs. relationship currency)
My statistics:
Book 200 for 2024
Book 1803 cumulatively
Chen gives some personal examples from her early days in broadcast journalism of when she thought she spoke up and advocated for herself, only for promised opportunities to be given to others who spoke up more loudly and frequently than she did. She also shares similar anecdotes from people whom she has coached, and a passing anecdote or two from people who are from "loud cultures" trying to adapt to "quiet cultures." A lot of this can be boiled down to understanding others' preferred communication styles/cadences and consciously adapting to them as needed -- for instance, understanding if a boss would be annoyed by and think it presumptuous on your part of being reminded about an opportunity you're aiming at on a semi-regular basis, or whether they would welcome the reminder to keep you top of mind as they have too much to keep track of.
As a fellow quiet culture person (probably due to gender conditioning more than anything else), I found this book generally useful and insightful. I especially enjoyed the advice about highlighting personal accomplishments by sharing and enumerating their impact on others, which definitely feels less braggy than ways I've seen my (mostly male) colleagues crow about their accomplishments (many of which were actually not their accomplishments to begin with).
Further reading: other books about work advice I would highly recommend:
by Cal Newport
by Carla Harris (specifically on the role of sponsors vs. mentors and performance currency vs. relationship currency)
My statistics:
Book 200 for 2024
Book 1803 cumulatively
July 2, 2024
Just started reading my advance copy of "Smart, Not Loud" by Jessica Chen and it is really fantastic. This will be so helpful for people seeking a way to speak up and stand out in today's work world, which is so important for career success. The concept of Quiet Culture and Loud Culture is brilliant. It's very well written, the anecdotes are clear and helpful, and the research-backed info is all spot-on too. And it's chock full of specific actionable advice that will help any Quite Culture person deal with today's Loud Culture workplace.
October 8, 2024
3.5-4; maybe it’s more useful for fresh undergraduate students
February 11, 2025
One of the best, most practical books on communication I have read.
May 10, 2025
I was a bit mixed on this one, but landed on it being a worthwhile read. The first part of the book talks about the dichotomy between “quiet cultures” and “loud cultures”, which I didn’t fully agree with (but was also not the target audience for). Parts two and three were much more practical/specific communication tips, which I got value from (even if they were sometimes a bit cheesy or blunt).
The cheesiness was a bit of a theme throughout, and in general the book came across as hinting at deeper/more nuanced topics but taking pains to put them into terms that readers would be more open/willing/capable of hearing.
The cheesiness was a bit of a theme throughout, and in general the book came across as hinting at deeper/more nuanced topics but taking pains to put them into terms that readers would be more open/willing/capable of hearing.
December 19, 2024
Short, punchy, actionable. Good stories. Added layer of perspective benefit coming from an Asian woman’s POV.
I had worldview difference with the author: Her “Why” for the book is to be “noticed”—accurately heard and seen. Rather than appealing to personal satisfaction, I found myself transliterating her advice to a different “Why”: to be effective. That me see how I could use her advice for more than personal benefit.
All told, definitely helpful, and speaks to the “quiet culture” tendencies I have.
I had worldview difference with the author: Her “Why” for the book is to be “noticed”—accurately heard and seen. Rather than appealing to personal satisfaction, I found myself transliterating her advice to a different “Why”: to be effective. That me see how I could use her advice for more than personal benefit.
All told, definitely helpful, and speaks to the “quiet culture” tendencies I have.
October 1, 2024
Really great advice in Jessica's book. Although it's focused on the work environment I think her tips can easily apply to interpersonal relationships as well.
I thought it was interesting how her idea of growing up in a quiet culture can have implications in typically loud culture work environments.
She stated how she originally was gearing her book to people of Asian heritage and then realized it applies to many different types of people. I'm grateful she broadened her audience because her book has enriched my life.
Check out my LinkedIn post for more comments on the book. ❤️
I thought it was interesting how her idea of growing up in a quiet culture can have implications in typically loud culture work environments.
She stated how she originally was gearing her book to people of Asian heritage and then realized it applies to many different types of people. I'm grateful she broadened her audience because her book has enriched my life.
Check out my LinkedIn post for more comments on the book. ❤️
December 11, 2024
I found the book relatable and gave me some good tips to consider in the workplace. I appreciated the concrete examples Jessica gives and ways we can practice becoming better communicators.
April 21, 2025
I really resonated with a lot that was said and I’m glad that I found it when I did. I will most definitely re-read this book to try to better internalize the concepts presented.
November 23, 2024
Stumbled upon this book and it was such a gem! Answered so many questions I had about my workplace's (loud) culture and why I struggle so much in it. Also the last part on tone, body language and communication delivery was so helpful! Thank you Jessica Chen for writing this book for quiet culture people, and especially Asian women, everywhere.
August 29, 2024
I have never related to a book so much in my life. I may have to purchase the actual book now.
July 20, 2024
Jessica writes beautifully about quiet and loud culture but never says one is better than the other.
The book is very good at self-reflection and giving tactics and clues on how to show up in the work place to show that you are seen and heard but, can do so without being loud or brash.
This is a great read for leaders and really anyone in the professional world as it also reflects and demonstrates the right ways to get noticed and how to advocate for yourself. 💕
The book is very good at self-reflection and giving tactics and clues on how to show up in the work place to show that you are seen and heard but, can do so without being loud or brash.
This is a great read for leaders and really anyone in the professional world as it also reflects and demonstrates the right ways to get noticed and how to advocate for yourself. 💕
January 27, 2025
Good book, definitely some pearls. Will be worth a re-read.
January 20, 2025
A very appropriate book to read and reflect on my own (chinese) Asian Quiet culture. Jessica weaves every fear into strength, and gives honest perspectives on today's loud culture. I wished I had this book 20 years ago.
October 19, 2024
Good tips to help those of us who grew up in a quiet culture and weren't sure how to advocate for ourselves in the workplace.
September 14, 2024
This book is targeted at professionals who are used to a different working culture that is common in East Asian countries and working in a western culture company. The author succeeds in addressing some issues the readers are facing in a professional environment and provides helpful tips.
However, personally I think this book is too simple and does not touch base upon some more common and challenging issues that are faced by the readers in their day to day job. Three main issues that I find extremely hard to cope with are
1. Small talks before meetings. I have never seen some of my fellow Asian colleagues chime in during the small talks before daily meetings. Personally i think if you are excluded from the small talks, it is like you are sitting at the corner of the meeting room regardless if you sit in a more visible spot or in a virtual meeting. This also applies to jokes and other pop culture references.
2. Networking or even just a pizza lunch at the kitchen. How do you chat with people and not just sitting there quietly eating your food alone?
3. The book title is called smart, not loud. So I would expect some examples of what it would look like to be loud but not smart. Sadly I didn’t see many of those examples.
I gave this book 3.5 stars but ended up a 4 instead of 3 because I hope more people could read it. But it is a 3 to me.
However, personally I think this book is too simple and does not touch base upon some more common and challenging issues that are faced by the readers in their day to day job. Three main issues that I find extremely hard to cope with are
1. Small talks before meetings. I have never seen some of my fellow Asian colleagues chime in during the small talks before daily meetings. Personally i think if you are excluded from the small talks, it is like you are sitting at the corner of the meeting room regardless if you sit in a more visible spot or in a virtual meeting. This also applies to jokes and other pop culture references.
2. Networking or even just a pizza lunch at the kitchen. How do you chat with people and not just sitting there quietly eating your food alone?
3. The book title is called smart, not loud. So I would expect some examples of what it would look like to be loud but not smart. Sadly I didn’t see many of those examples.
I gave this book 3.5 stars but ended up a 4 instead of 3 because I hope more people could read it. But it is a 3 to me.
April 8, 2025
Some key takeaways from the book:
* It's possible to get noticed at work, even coming from a background of quiet culture. The key is to be smart, rather than loud. In that way, we can still gain visibility for our work, while keep a part of our authentic self;
* The four pillars of cultural re-frames:
- How we engage others; tailor our messages to the audience we engage with;
- How we spend time to maximize our opportunity;
- How to handle wins and celebrate our accomplishments;
- How to manage conflicts.
** Shape our career brand -- if we don't do it, other people will happily do it for us;
* In tough moments, use the TACT Strategy:
- Take a moment;
- Articulate the process;
- Communicate solutions;
- Talk it out together.
* Advocate for ourselves. Be our loudest cheerleader;
* Create boundaries and set expectations;
* How to enter a conversation: listening, acknowledging, anchoring, answering.
* It's possible to get noticed at work, even coming from a background of quiet culture. The key is to be smart, rather than loud. In that way, we can still gain visibility for our work, while keep a part of our authentic self;
* The four pillars of cultural re-frames:
- How we engage others; tailor our messages to the audience we engage with;
- How we spend time to maximize our opportunity;
- How to handle wins and celebrate our accomplishments;
- How to manage conflicts.
** Shape our career brand -- if we don't do it, other people will happily do it for us;
* In tough moments, use the TACT Strategy:
- Take a moment;
- Articulate the process;
- Communicate solutions;
- Talk it out together.
* Advocate for ourselves. Be our loudest cheerleader;
* Create boundaries and set expectations;
* How to enter a conversation: listening, acknowledging, anchoring, answering.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 16, 2024
This book is a refreshing guide that champions the power of strategic communication over mere volume. Chen's approach is practical and insightful, offering actionable advice that empowers readers to navigate professional challenges with finesse.
The chapter on 'Advocating for Ourselves' particularly shines as Jessica demystifies the art of asking for what you want with clarity and real-world examples. Through her guidance, readers learn to harness their strengths effectively in everyday interactions, ensuring their voices are heard.
Overall, "Smart, Not Loud" is a must-read for anyone seeking to enhance their communication skills especially if you were raised in a Quiet Culture. It's a valuable resource for professionals at any stage of their career journey.
The chapter on 'Advocating for Ourselves' particularly shines as Jessica demystifies the art of asking for what you want with clarity and real-world examples. Through her guidance, readers learn to harness their strengths effectively in everyday interactions, ensuring their voices are heard.
Overall, "Smart, Not Loud" is a must-read for anyone seeking to enhance their communication skills especially if you were raised in a Quiet Culture. It's a valuable resource for professionals at any stage of their career journey.
July 7, 2024
This is a well-written and critical book for our times. Many work cultures are often taken over by the loudest voices in the room. Drawing on her rich experience as a journalist and consultant, the author provides practical ideas about how to gain credibility and visibility so that your important voice is heard and your career trajectory rises. It's a great read for all team members!
July 14, 2024
This is one of the best books on communication I’ve read. It is very well-written and organized. Every chapter provides tangible tools and techniques one can use to improve communication skills and advocate for oneself. Jessica also provides a lot of real world examples when she introduces a concept. Highly recommended!
September 7, 2024
The book details Chen’s experience in moving from a Quiet culture to a Loud culture. In other words, to speak up in a way that goes in your favor. Full of great tips and easy to follow steps, Chen provides a guide so anyone could step out of their comfort zones and into ones where we get things done.
January 27, 2025
I really enjoyed how Chen encourages those of use from Quiet Culture to stay true to who we are while still promoting ourselves. It is a balance that I have difficulty with, and this book is highly encouraging.
My feelings of being overlooked by louder coworkers are validated.
My feelings of being overlooked by louder coworkers are validated.
March 31, 2025
For anyone entering the workforce, this book is a must-read. Learning how to communicate at work while also advocating yourself is a crucial skill to have, and the interpersonal skills in this book allows you to do so.
July 12, 2024
I consider myself a pretty good communicator, but this book gives easy-to-follow strategies that even a seasoned communicator can use! I would highly recommend it to anyone who wants to improve their communication skills. Being strategic in your communication can help you get what you want. If you have a recent grad in your life - this would be the perfect gift!
November 28, 2024
I feel like this book just refuses other advices, never really thought that this was that original in the first place. 3 stars
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
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