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Communication

The ability to speak effectively is one of the strongest assets any employee can bring to the workplace. Unfortunately, sometimes being heard requires you to disagree with co-workers or defend yourself in combative meetings- both of which can be very difficult. However, voicing your opinions, especially when you have thought through a situation and feel confident in your ideas, is important personally and professionally. Missed opportunities to speak decrease your visibility in the workplace, and can have a negative effect on access to increased employment opportunities. Advancement in the workplace requires women to develop and use a strong, decisive communication style.

Here are some tips to help you be a more effective communicator.

1. State your views clearly and decisively.
The tone you use will demonstrate how confident you are in your own ideas. Don't state your opinions as if you are actually asking a question, or imply that you are looking for your co-workers' approval. Be as direct with your word choice as possible.

2. Choose adjectives carefully.
Consider the words that are meaningful in your office. For instance, will your suggestion save time, bring in more money, or help a process run smoothly? Think about the values of your organization, and use terms that relate to its overall goals.

3. Refuse to feel intimidated by co-workers who speak loudly or forcefully.
The person who speaks the loudest is not necessarily the one with the best ideas. Although it can be difficult to compete with people who use intimidation to voice their opinion, remember that you are just as capable as anyone else, and every idea is worth hearing.

4. Speak up and command your fair share of the conversation.
Office discussions are often dominated by more extroverted people, and other ideas may get lost in the shuffle. If you feel unable to get a word in edgewise, there are several things you can do. Try to sit near your boss or whoever is leading the meeting. When you have something to say you are close enough to make eye contact with them and signal your entrance to the conversation. If you are frequently interrupted by co-workers, don't give up. Say "Wait a second, I'm almost done" and finish your thought. Although it can be a frustrating process, it's important to demonstrate to your co-workers that you are intent on participating.

5. Always make eye contact.
The most important thing you can do in a conversation is to make eye contact with those you're speaking with. Looking someone in the eye demonstrates you have confidence in what you're saying, and establishes you as their peer and equal (which you are!)

6. Don't apologize for your opinions or ideas.
Starting or ending a sentence with an apology immediately decreases your credibility. If you don't feel confident in your idea, no one else will either. Remember that a diversity of opinions is critical to success in business, and you owe it to yourself and your company to speak up.

7. Learn how to say 'no' without feeling guilty.
Being good at your job may mean that you have to say "no" sometimes. Know what your limits are, especially in terms of workload, and stick to them to avoid being overwhelmed and overworked.

When these skills are included in your verbal communication interactions others will take notice. The first step is to speak up and speak out!