Speak Up with Confidence (Even When You Feel Like a Fake)

Have you ever been in a meeting, brimming with a brilliant solution, only to have a male colleague voice the same idea moments later and receive thunderous applause? It's a frustrating scenario many women, especially BIPOC women, face all too often. Our voices get muted, our ideas go unnoticed, and then – bam! – the same concept, delivered by a man, is suddenly hailed as genius.

This experience can fuel imposter syndrome and self-doubt. But fear not! Here's how to navigate this dynamic and ensure your brilliance gets the recognition it deserves 👇🏼:

1. Speak Up With Confidence: Don't wait for the "perfect" moment to chime in. Project your voice and own your ideas. Practice beforehand if necessary, but remember, enthusiasm and clarity can be just as powerful as perfectly polished phrasing.

2. Frame Your Ideas Strategically: Think about your audience's needs. Position your idea as a solution to a specific problem and highlight the benefits it brings.

3. The Power of "We": Sometimes collaboration is key. If you feel your voice might be ignored, try framing your idea as a collaborative effort. Use phrases like, "I was thinking, what if we...?"

4. Find Your Ally: It's fantastic when a male colleague champions your idea, but you don't need to rely solely on that. Build relationships with other women in your field who can support and amplify your voice.

5. Document Everything: Keep a record of your ideas, even if they're not implemented immediately. Time-stamped notes or emails can be powerful evidence of your contribution when discussions revisit the topic.

Remember, your ideas are valuable! Don't let anyone dim your light 💡. By speaking up with confidence, framing your ideas strategically, and building a support network, you can ensure your brilliance gets the recognition it deserves.

Tips For Allies:

We all have a role to play in creating a more inclusive space. Here are some ways you can be a powerful ally:

1. Be Aware: Recognize unconscious bias and how it can lead to women's ideas being overlooked. Unconscious bias are blindspots, not blockers. We all have them.

   • Think of unconscious bias like a dusty attic window in an old house. It lets light in, but the grime distorts the view. We all have these biases, shaped by our experiences and surroundings. The key is acknowledging them and cleaning the window so we can see each other clearly.

2. Invite Participation: Make a conscious effort to invite quieter individuals to share their perspectives. Use phrases like, "I'd love to hear what you think, [Name]."

3. Amplify Voices: If a great idea goes unheard, don't hesitate to reiterate it and give credit to the original speaker.

   • Speak up and say, "Did everyone catch what [Name] just said? That's a fantastic idea, let's explore it further." Your support can make a world of difference.

Together, let's rewrite the narrative and create a space where all voices are heard and valued. Now go out there and conquer your world 💪🏼!

Ready to silence your inner critic and confidently share your game-changing ideas? Whether you're a woman ready to overcome self-doubt or an ally who wants to support the women in your life, I can help! I offer free coaching consultations to help you achieve your goals. Click here to schedule your free consultation today!