Where Are You Challenged Using Your Voice?
Recently, I had the pleasure of speaking to an organization of successful women in business. The impact of that experience was shared by my audience as well as by me.
These are women who lead – from emerging leaders to CEOs. Very powerful and talented women to say the least.
My presentation was focused on executive presence – particularly how you’re showing up in the world, are you self-aware and how do others see you, etc.
I had decided to get specific with this group. I always tailor my speeches to my audiences and I wanted to go a step further. So, I surveyed them and asked just one question:
Where are in your career/life are you challenged in using your voice?
The answers were telling.
“When there’s a job I think I should go after.”
“When I’m with other successful women.”
“Saying ‘no’.”
“Being assertive with my knowledge so I’m not looked at as being pushy.”
“Being the authority figure in the room.”
These are just some of the answers I received. When I looked at them all, I realized how much of this was about diminishing, getting smaller, hiding, not being seen.
Women tend to do this in their careers and life. We diminish our talents, our gifts, our knowledge and wisdom. We do this for many reasons:
Don’t want to look like we’re bragging (um, brag away sister! I love hearing you own your talents!)
Don’t want to be seen as aggressive.
Feel less-than in a room of men.
Think we need more experience or education. (Only go after that Ph.D if you want it. You don’t need it. You’ve got everything you need right now!)
Don’t believe we’re worth it.
It makes me sad.
And, it makes me mad.
Now, I’m taking action.
For the next few weeks, I’m going to cover some of these answers and discuss how to overcome the habit of playing small.
And, it’s not just about me.
I’d like you to be part of the conversation. Interested?
Fab!
Here’s how you can join me.
I’ll be sending a short survey to you and would love for you to answer the questions honestly and candidly. (Not part of my community? No prob! You can sign up at the bottom of this page or on the right side. Easy peasy.)
In the coming months, I’ll be diving deeper into some of the responses – talking about why it’s happening and what can be done to become more comfortable speaking up for yourself and sharing your brilliance.
AND – this isn’t just for women.
Men, listen up. You lead teams, right? There are women on those teams and you need to know what their challenges are so you can effectively and successfully coach and manage them.
Plus, you might not be using your voice to it’s fullest, either. I’d like to hear where you’re challenged as well.
This is a conversation that needs to happen.
Out in the open.
In front of others.
For others.
For ourselves.
You see, we’re all struggling with the same challenges.
Imagine what it would be like to create the space to share, listen and support greater success.
Women.
Men.
Supporting and encouraging each other.
Understanding one another.
That’s a community I definitely want to be part of.
You coming?