Speak with Confidence, Pause with Power: Communication Skills Every Career Woman Deserves
- Juliet Simpson
- Sep 5
- 2 min read
Finding Your Voice: Overcoming Communication Challenges in Established Careers
After five years or more in your career, you’ve likely experienced moments where your expertise was strong, but your voice didn’t quite land the way you wanted. Perhaps a suggestion was overlooked until it was echoed later, or you caught yourself softening statements with “I think” or “maybe.”
You’re not alone. A 2023 British Psychological Society survey found that women are significantly more likely than men to use tentative language in workplace discussions. This isn’t about ability—it’s about long-established social conditioning that rewards women for being agreeable, while encouraging men to be assertive. The result? Brilliant ideas can sometimes lose their impact because they’re wrapped in hesitation.
Speak with Confidence: Unapologetically You
Language shapes perception. Studies show that women still apologise more frequently than men in professional environments, often unnecessarily. While empathy and humility are valuable, overuse of qualifiers or apologies can undermine authority.
Instead of: “I’m not sure, but I think we could…”
Try: “Here’s what I recommend.”
This isn’t about changing who you are—it’s about making sure your expertise is heard as clearly as the knowledge behind it.
Pause with Power: Master the Art of Silence
A well-placed pause doesn’t signal hesitation—it signals strength. Yet, according to research by the Chartered Management Institute, women often speak faster in meetings, worried about being interrupted. By slowing down and pausing with intent, you give your words room to breathe and show that you are in control of the conversation.
Harnessing Femininity: Empathy as a Superpower
One of the greatest differentiators women bring to the workplace is empathy. A 2022 UK survey on workplace wellbeing found that women leaders are more likely to recognise and respond to employee challenges, building trust and loyalty. Empathy isn’t weakness—it’s influence.
That said, balance is key. Pair empathy with assertiveness and you’ll demonstrate not just understanding, but also leadership. Body language supports this too: open posture, strong eye contact, and calm gestures signal confidence as clearly as your words.
Why This Matters Now
As UK workplaces grapple with hybrid models, diversity strategies, and shifting employee expectations, communication skills are at the heart of professional influence. Women who embrace direct, confident, empathetic communication don’t just benefit themselves—they reshape workplace culture.
Final Thought
Empowered women empower women. When you speak with confidence, pause with power, and lean into empathy, you’re not only heard—you’re remembered.
If your organisation is ready to unlock stronger communication and leadership among women in the workplace, I’d love to support you. Book me as a speaker, trainer, or workshop facilitator to bring these strategies to life for your teams.
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