Some of you may react to this article with a shrug of your shoulders. You may be thinking, \u201cAs long as I do a good job and know my stuff, I will succeed.\u201d Though doing a good job and knowing your area of expertise is critical, how you express your knowledge can be a game changer. Let\u2019s face it, women have a disadvantage in the workplace. Period. It is in your best interest to have everything possible working for you. That is what I strongly recommend that you start paying close attention to your language. If you recorded yourself today, would you hear a woman who sounds assertive, confident, and powerful? Maybe not. In the media, I have been quoted saying, \u201cEvery time you open your mouth it\u2019s a speaking opportunity.\u201d When YOU open your mouth, are your words advancing your career or undermining it? You likely are presenting department reports, or pitching to a potential client, or speaking on a podcast. Unfortunately, you may have learned verbal habits that undercut your power in each of those situations. They are so entrenched you don\u2019t notice you are using them. Sometimes you use these phrases intentionally, in an effort to be accepted, soften the blow, or seem less aggressive. Regardless of the foundational reason, it\u2019s still causing you to shoot yourself in your High-Heeled foot. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are many power-robbing phrases that I hear women use. The focus is going to be on three in this article: hedges, add-ons, and the indecisive \u201cI\u201d. Curb your inclination to be defense about this, I am not scolding or berating you, instead guiding you. We need every tool in our career tool belt. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThis may not be right, but I think shifting the marketing plan to a new target audience could be beneficial.\u201d No doubt you recognize how the hedge under sells your well thought out direction. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cChanging the target market is aligned with the company vision, right?\u201d This add-on opens the door for controversy and dissent. Your collaborative efforts, fact-finding, and alternate perspectives need to come well before you take a stance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cI feel changing the target market will be align it with the company vision.\u201d Are you convinced this is a valuable direction? If you are, say so. Surely, this is not just your gut talking. You\u2019ve done your homework, say so. Followers of my articles, keynotes, workshops, and books will recognize tis quote from author and Pediatrician, Sally E. Shaywitz, MD, \u201cTo be someone, a woman doesn\u2019t have to be more like a man, but she does have to be more of a woman.\u201d Women are strong and powerful, let your language reflect that strength and power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n