Here's how you can build assertiveness and confidence as a consultant in a male-dominated industry.

Having been in consulting and now in banking, where we are as an industry still predominantly male dominated, I would advise critically examining what we bring to the table. That should include your unique strengths, as no one can do you! Your character and your values should drive how you function and that should mirror your reputation. Lastly, your personality and attitude will show how people perceive you. Mix all those ingredients into a field that you are passionate in and no one can take that shine away!

Your worth is only and only the quality of your solution and the dedication you put in delivering that output. Beyond that you could be an amoeba, a 5 legged alien or an amorphous cloud, it's nobody else's business.

Acknowledge your importance as a consultant by appreciating your unique approach. Your knowledge and experience are priceless resources. Consider your successes to increase your sense of professional worth. The foundation of assertiveness in conversations and negotiations is this self-awareness. Knowing your strengths will help you become more confident, so play to them. Recognise your value and use it to your advantage to succeed as a consultant.

Speak up, stand up and be counted when called upon and when necessary. Walk the talk and show subject matter mastery. Then you will be taken seriously and worth/brand equity built up

Self-awareness has shaped how I approach business in male-dominated fields, such as consulting. I have worked at being keenly aware of my value-add, skill set, and achievements so I have a firm understanding of where I can make a difference when working with clients. This also allows me the confidence to honor my success by refusing to underplay any of my professional wins.

Consciously or unconsciously some of your colleagues, bosses and team members may speak more than others. Perhaps they like to talk more or they believe you are too soft spoken. Actually that's good. It will help you cut to the chase. Focus on the big idea, the important part that's been missed and the key detail. That's all that is needed.

As a female Resilience Consultant with over 30 years of lived experience, including multiple non visible disabilities & being neurodivergent, plus also surviving cancer, I understand the challenges of navigating a male-dominated industry. I have worked virtually all my life in this environment. It can be quite challenging & often toxic. Building assertiveness & confidence starts with establishing clear boundaries. Know what you're comfortable with in workload, communication & behaviour. Communicate those boundaries firmly but politely. Upholding these boundaries not only earns respect but also prevents burnout & equalitable treatment. My lived experience is my strength & valuing it empowers me to thrive in any environment.

As a disabled, neurodivergent female Resilience Consultant with over 30 years of lived experience, navigating a male-dominated industry requires resilience & assertiveness. But mostly it requires a lot of self care! Self care isn't selfish, it's essential, well it us for me! Try & seek allies who champion diversity and inclusion, regardless of gender. They'll offer mentorship, endorse your ideas & amplify your voice. A supportive environment encourages confident self-expression & leadership, as well as being great for nurturing & looking after our own wellbeing. Remember, you're not alone in this journey. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, it is a sign of great strength!

If this is aimed at women, then I must say the question is more than a little bizarre, because I have observed both situations that refute this question: 1) In general, despite all the wonderful words everybody spouts, especially industry leaders and politicians, there is still a very long way to go for genuine equality/parity. It is a general social and civilizational malaise which is of much larger scope than just the consulting industry. And conversely, 2) I have come across many women professionals who have overcome these challenges and have demonstrated their brilliant abilities beyond question Women professionals in my experience have tended to be calm, considered, often much more emotionally aware, and strategic in approach.

Diversity is what creates momentum. There is a reason why more diverse boards are shown to be 25% more innovative than those who are the standard status quo. Don’t try to fit in to stale spaces. Attain mentors. Learn from them. Figure out how to make yourself stand out and speak up.