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Women in Leadership: Breaking the Glass Ceiling Through Communication
As we strive for greater gender equality and representation of women in leadership, there’s another aspect worth exploring: the invisible language we can unintentionally use ourselves.
By having an honest conversation about how subtle communication habits can influence how we present ourselves professionally, we can begin to recognise those patterns, challenge them and communicate with greater confidence.
What is ‘invisible language’ in the workplace?
Invisible language describes the subtle linguistic habits and phrases that can often go unnoticed but may affect how we communicate and are perceived in a professional setting.
For example, we might downplay our achievements, soften our ideas, use less assertive language or apologise when an apology isn’t actually necessary.
Women can face particular challenges and expectations within the workplace, and communication can play a part in navigating them. Becoming more aware of the words we choose isn’t about changing or compromising who we are. It’s about being able to communicate our skills, ideas and accomplishments with confidence.
4 ways to communicate with greater confidence at work
Own Your Achievements:
When discussing your accomplishments, do you use confident language that highlights your contributions without downplaying them? Be proud of your hard work, accomplishments and the value you bring to the table.
Embrace Your Ideas:
Do you speak up and share your ideas with confidence and clarity during meetings and discussions? Your insights are valuable and deserve to be heard, own your voice and embrace your perspective.
Replace Apologies with Confidence:
Politeness is important, but there’s no need to apologise excessively or unnecessarily.
Have you ever found yourself saying ‘sorry’ for no real reason? I know I have! It was something ingrained in me from childhood and it took awareness and time to break the habit – I promise it is possible!
Becoming aware of these small communication habits can help you communicate more intentionally and confidently.
Amplify Others:
Lift each other up. Celebrate the successes of your colleagues and connections and recognise their talents.
Together, we can continue to build a supportive and empowering workplace culture that welcomes different perspectives and gives people the confidence to contribute.
When one person rises, we all rise.
Developing confident and authentic women leaders
Effective leadership isn’t about changing your personality or trying to communicate like somebody else. It’s about developing the self-awareness and skills to communicate with clarity, confidence and authenticity.
Our Elevate Women in Leadership programme supports women to strengthen their leadership voice, develop confidence and presence, think strategically and explore some of the workplace dynamics that can influence women’s leadership journeys.
Let’s keep the conversation going
Have you noticed any ‘invisible language’ habits in your own communication? What strategies have helped you overcome them?
Get in touch with Jarrold Training to continue the conversation.
Bryony Moore
Bryony is a Leadership and Management Trainer, Consultant and Coach at Jarrold Training, specialising in leadership development, coaching, workplace culture and Insights Discovery®. She works with organisations to develop people and teams through practical learning and consultancy that supports both individual and business performance.