Finding Your Voice: How to Develop Assertiveness Skills for Effective Leadership

We all know that feeling, don't we? That knot in your stomach when you need to speak up, but the words just won't come out. Or maybe you do speak up, but it comes out as a hesitant whisper, laced with apologies.

As women, especially those of us juggling careers and families, we're often conditioned to prioritise harmony over our own needs. We're taught to be "nice," to avoid conflict, and to put others first. But here's the thing: true leadership requires more than just being agreeable. It demands that we find our voice, set boundaries, and advocate for ourselves and our teams.

Why Assertiveness Matters

Think of assertiveness as your inner compass, guiding you towards confident and effective leadership. It's about expressing your thoughts, feelings, and needs in a way that's both clear and respectful.

When you're assertive:

• You build unshakeable confidence. You start to trust your gut, believe in your ideas, and own your worth.
• You communicate like a pro. Your team knows exactly where they stand, and misunderstandings become a thing of the past.
• You make decisions with clarity. No more second-guessing or agonising over choices - you make them, own them, and move forward.
• You inspire others. When you lead with authenticity and strength, you show your team what's possible. You give them permission to find their own voices too.

The Challenges We Face (and How to Overcome Them)

Let's be real, finding your voice isn't always easy. We face unique challenges as women:

• The Fear of Conflict: We worry about rocking the boat or being seen as "difficult." But remember, healthy conflict can lead to growth and innovation.
• The Need to be Liked: It's natural to want to be liked, but sometimes, leadership requires making tough calls, even if they're not popular.
• Internalised Doubts: We may question our own abilities or feel like we don't have the right to speak up. But your voice matters, and your perspective is valuable.

So, how do we overcome these challenges and step into our assertive power?

Practical Tips to Find YOUR Voice

• Set those boundaries! Decide what you're willing to do (and not do), and communicate it clearly and kindly.
• Speak from the heart. Use "I" statements to express your feelings and needs. "I feel..." or "I need..." are powerful ways to own your truth.
• Listen actively. Show genuine interest in others' perspectives, even when you disagree. This builds trust and opens the door for productive conversations.
• Project confidence. Stand tall, make eye contact, and speak clearly. Your body language speaks volumes.
• Practice, practice, practice. Assertiveness is a skill, and like any skill, it takes practice. Start small and build your confidence over time.

Remember, you are capable, you are worthy, and your voice deserves to be heard.