How to influence with confidence in male-dominated workplaces 💼✨

Do you ever feel like your ideas are overlooked at work? Have you ever hesitated to speak up in a meeting, especially when you’re surrounded by strong personalities or senior executives? Do you wish you were better at influencing people?

Lately, a recurring theme in my coaching sessions has been the challenge of influencing others at work—especially when dealing with executives with strong personalities or navigating male-dominated spaces. If this resonates with you, you’re not alone ❤️

As a woman in a male-dominated setting, it can be intimidating to share your ideas and ensure they’re heard. BUT YOUR VOICE MATTERS! With the right strategies, you can influence decisions and make a lasting impact.

I’ve spent years navigating male-dominated spaces, from boardrooms to conferences, and I’ve learned that influence isn’t about being the loudest voice—it’s about being the most effective one.

Strategies to influence with confidence

✅ Start with credibility: build a reputation for delivering results and providing thoughtful, well-researched ideas. When you consistently show up as competent and prepared, people are more likely to listen.

✅ Know your audience: executives are busy and focused on high-level outcomes. Tailor your message to highlight the impact of your ideas on their goals. Speak their language by addressing metrics, efficiency, or profitability when appropriate.

✅ Be clear and concise: when speaking to strong personalities or senior leaders, get to the point quickly. Open with your main idea or solution, then provide supporting details. Clarity not only shows confidence but also respects their time.

✅ Use powerful body language: how you present yourself matters. Stand tall, make eye contact, and avoid minimizing behaviors like fidgeting or apologizing unnecessarily. Your physical presence can communicate confidence before you even speak.

✅ Speak up strategically: if you’re nervous about interrupting, wait for a natural pause and start with a phrase like, “I’d like to add…” or “Building on that idea…” This helps position your input as valuable and collaborative.

✅ Handle pushback gracefully: in male-dominated environments, you might encounter resistance. Instead of shrinking back, ask clarifying questions or offer to revisit your idea after gathering more information. This shows resilience and a commitment to finding the best solution.

Why your voice matters

As a woman in the workplace, your perspective brings diversity and innovation to the table. When you speak up, you not only influence outcomes but also pave the way for others to do the same. The key is to balance preparation with confidence, turning your challenges into opportunities to shine ✨

So, the next time you’re in a meeting, remember this: your voice matters. Speak with confidence, own your space, and trust that your ideas are worth hearing.

If this resonated with you, here’s how you can take it further:

📅 Book a Clarity Call: let’s discuss how you can build influence and confidence in your workplace.

🧠 Take my Monster Quiz: discover what might be holding you back and how to overcome it.

🎥 Subscribe to my YouTube channel: explore videos on confidence, leadership, and thriving in male-dominated industries.

Lots of love,

-Anna