Not Passive or Aggressive

Did you know women talk almost three times as much as men every day?

With our 20,000+ words per day, we talk about our families, jobs, diets and other personal information, but rarely about opinions and specific perspectives.

Why?

The anticipation of social backlash is unnerving for many.

“The balancing act is to be a peer with men as you assert yourself, but still be viewed as a woman with an interesting personality,” says Dr. Karissa Thacker, workplace psychologist and executive coach at Strategic Performance Solutions.

For female entrepreneurs in male dominated industries, this can be especially challenging.

Men tend to command the room with strong personalities and strong voices, making themselves heard regardless of what they have to say.

“Women have a stereotype of being passive aggressive,” says Kristyn Stewart, director of The Philadelphia Center for Arts and Technology.

What can we do?

“It is important to know what you expect and be direct when communicating. You can still maintain a nurturing attitude by noting what your employees are doing right as well as where they can improve,” says Karen Walker, president and CEO of OneTeam Consulting.

Resist the temptation to allow others to control conversations.

“Be clear about the value your insight and knowledge brings to your team and clients.”

Say it like you mean it!

Bonus PINK Link: Now that you can speak like a man, here’s how to network.

By Kelsey Cruz

Kelsey is a freelance writer at Little PINK Book. Follow her on Twitter @kelsey_cruz or visit her blog Caramel City.

“You must do the thing you think you cannot do.” Eleanor Roosevelt