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We all know professional presenters who are filled with the kind of bravado that takes them to great lengths to hide any indication of weakness. Especially women, no matter what happens, they “know it all.”
At every essence of their being is the fierce belief that showing any hint of vulnerability could cause them to be seen as weak.
This arrogance couldn’t be more mistaken.
The hardest thing about being a woman in a speaking profession is demonstrating vulnerability. Think of it this way: when a woman stops trying to be as tough as nails, they demonstrate vulnerability and sensibility and brings people together, everyone wins.
I remember back when first entered the workforce I was told by an executive woman who I deeply admired (let’s call her Mary)
“Don’t show your emotions in public, you’ll be seen as weak.”
I never forgot those words, as I became a member of the speaking profession.
That viewpoint is old school.
Great female speakers, presenters, facilitators and executives need to have courage and self-awareness to understand that being vulnerable is a sign of strength to lead with conviction.
Vulnerability is not a weakness, far from the truth. The boldest act of a woman is to be openly vulnerable. This is a BIG mindset shift.
You need to see the objectives of the business through the eyes of the people you lead. This invites inclusion and they become the drivers of business success.
When you are vulnerable and involve your audience they will feel more connected, respected, and invested in what you have to share.
Vulnerable women are exceptional at discovering the authenticity and seeing the BIG picture from the eyes of those they serve.
Here are four strategies to better understanding vulnerability is not a weakness:
Consider this: when training, allow others to drive the conversation. Just sit and listen! Be a better presenter by fully hearing other’s ideas.
In fact, your vulnerability adds to your credibility. Be seen as a real person. You can stop wasting your energy to be something you’re not.
Speakers don’t have all the answers; great speakers allow the answers to happen organically through their training. There is no ‘going it alone’.
Get it right the first time by putting together a strategy that will heighten your real weaknesses.
Today, you need to be a student of vulnerability. Practicing this behavior yourself and sharing with other professional women.
Only share your candid information with people who have earned your trust to hear your most sensitive stories.
Vulnerability is frightening for many of us. We don’t want to look weak to our peers.
Recognize and own your vulnerability, it is a form of courage.
Next time you’re speaking or presenting a workshop and are faced with a challenge, your response is a simple “I don’t have all the answers. Lets work it out together.” It doesn’t get as vulnerable as this.
Be Unstoppable
I am a successful businesswoman, author, speaker, and Podcast host. I have authored over 450 articles and four books on leadership, motivation, personal development, marketing and success. I am known as the Unstoppable DIVA ~ the epitome of a woman on a Mission. From drag racing, Harley riding, tattooed DIVA... I broke the mold and I'm not your typical leader. I was Chairwoman and CEO of Girl Scouts USA (Penn’s Woods Council) from 2000 to 2006, when the Girl Scouts realigned. Since that time, I have headed my own company, the Pheiff Group, and founder of 5 Days to Total Leadership and the Freedom Academy. We are a multi-million dollar online training company. To learn more about the Pheiff Group check out my websites at http://www.conniepheiffspeaks.com or my podcast at http://www.uporout.com.
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