How to Speak to Get Heard?

Have you ever had an idea that was neglected or taken by someone else? It can be demotivating and disheartening when your voice is not appreciated in the workplace.

Being a woman or minority in the tech world can be daunting. The anxiety that your ideas and feelings won't be respected is real; studies reveal that 75% of women don’t speak up if they are outnumbered by men. Or perhaps you're concerned about encouraging an unfavorable stereotype of minority to which you belong.

The need to speak up can often seem unachievable, but it is absolutely essential in advocating for yourself and others like you.

Make no mistake: It isn't your fault that you're not being heard at work. Moreover, it's unfair to expect marginalized people to combat systemic oppression and fix the biases of those with power. So instead, let this article be a guide on how you can stand up for yourself and your values as an individual by getting your ideas and accomplishments noticed despite existing inequalities.

Read on our top five tips to amplify your voice as a woman in tech:

All Facts Under Your Belt

Does the mere idea of negotiating make you feel nauseous? Are you caught in a whirlwind of thoughts like “I don’t want them to think I’m unappreciative,” if all you're doing is negotiating for increased compensation? To maximize your potential, it is essential to foster confidence within yourself and tackle any fears or habits that might be stopping you from utilizing your voice. By doing so, you can become a pro negotiator and gain the professional positions and acknowledgment you deserve.

Back your point of view with relevant examples and support your passion with a convincing presentation! Before you speak, always plan what you will communicate and how you will express yourself. Rehearsing your message out loud is a great way to prepare the words that are needed and to build up confidence before having said them when it matters most.

Liberate Yourself from the Need to be Liked

When expressing yourself in a work environment, particularly as a female in a male-dominated sector or company, you may fear not being accepted by your peers. But there is no need to sacrifice dignity for popularity; "just because you're liked doesn't mean that you're respected". Women often struggle with the temptation of needing approval from others, however this won’t help advance career goals and could hinder sharing opinions and ideas. Despite their success, numerous female professionals often undermine themselves by silently believing they are imposters, belittling their value and expertise. Learn how to value your worth, increase your visibility and communicate with influence.

Confidence, Chin up and Carry on

Strive for clarity by cutting out filtering language and being direct in your phrasing. Instead of utilizing weak qualifiers such as “I think” or “I feel like," go straight to the point. While these phrases may be used automatically in an effort to soften what is said, it can also make one appear less sure of themselves. Filler words like "like" and "um" should also be eliminated where possible; brevity helps capture the attention of those listening more effectively.

For others to be willing to hear you, first you must believe in yourself. Stand your ground, be aware of your strengths and do not underestimate your good posture! Nothing wrong with practicing in front of the mirror or with allies who could cheer you up.

Forget Over-Apologizing

Use “I’m Sorry”, only when needed. You do not need to apologize for speaking up! We often let self-doubt get in the way and block the best we are capable of. Watch your “Sorry” and use it wisely. Instead of concentrating on external constraints that they can't alter, female leaders should begin to contemplate their own interior impediments to success. Take the first step to crafting your own distinctive leadership brand and become confident in who you are as a leader.

Attend a Tech Conference for Women

Meet role models, learn new skills, get acquainted with like-minded people and open up new career opportunities to yourself. Consider the variety of inspiration you could benefit from and hesitate no further. Network, learn and become more confident in what you do. Still hesitant about the reasons to sign up for a conference - check out Why Attending Women in Tech Global Conference is a great idea!

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However you approach your new, more confident persona behavior, remain authentic and do not let yourself get pigeonholed. Voice your opinion and back it up with valid arguments.

It takes courage to speak up, but remember that having the ability to express yourself is a superpower!