How to support women who don’t speak up for themselves.
How we can empower women who don’t speak up for themselves. In my experience, as a women in the professional workspace there are many resources and educational material on how to be a empowered woman. These are some topics to think about whether you’re a man or woman.
Men, Listen up:
Part of what comes of this research is, for men, the importance of listening. For many men, it’s just a matter of becoming aware of these dynamics. And again, to do that, men may have to actually be quiet at times and listen.
Women, Speak up:
Building confidence is key in empowering women to speak up. Women especially worry about the reactions of others. They worry that by speaking their minds, they are violating gender roles. We need women to be confident and speak up. As they do that, other women see that and respond to it.
Watch out for Stereotypes:
Women are especially less likely to be listened to on topics that men are stereotyped as knowing more about independent of how much women actually know about these topics. Finances, management, and doctrinal knowledge are a few examples. You need to be especially careful that they don’t dismiss women’s voices on topics often seen as masculine.
Empowering women in the workplace is indeed crucial for creating a more inclusive and productive environment. Here are some additional thoughts on how to empower women who may not naturally speak up for themselves:
Positive support matters:
Think about being an ally. Protect, even solicit the speech of women in the room. If they are interrupted, ask them to finish a thought. Practice positive interruptions, like “That’s an interesting point” or “I’m glad you brought that up.” Such small interjections may seem inconsequential, but the lack of positive support, in combination with negative interruptions, delivers a powerful dose of invalidation for women.
Mentorship Programs:
Establishing mentorship programs where experienced professionals can guide and support women in their career development can be highly beneficial. Mentors can provide advice, share experiences, and help build confidence.
Training and Development:
Offering training sessions focused on leadership, communication, and negotiation skills can equip women with the tools they need to assert themselves and excel in their roles.
Inclusive Policies:
Implementing policies that promote diversity and inclusion, such as flexible working hours, parental leave, and anti-discrimination measures, can create a supportive environment for women.
Recognition and Rewards:
Acknowledging and rewarding the contributions of women in the workplace can boost their confidence and encourage them to take on more leadership roles.
Creating Safe Spaces:
Providing forums or groups where women can share their experiences, challenges, and successes can foster a sense of community and support.
By taking these steps, we can create a workplace where women feel empowered to speak up and contribute their valuable perspectives
I’ll leave you with this quote from Jessica Preece a political-science professor.
"Women, have much to contribute. If we build a world in which women’s voices are valued and listened to, they will speak up without having to be told to. The goal is to create a space where women can be seen as influential as their authentic selves."
