
Sound More Assertive in Meetings: What to Say as a Woman Leader
From The Power of Peacefulness: Leading with Calm, Confidence and Clarity by Sharon T McLaughlin MD FACS
April 9, 2026 · 21 min
About this episode
This episode provides women leaders with practical phrases and strategies to communicate assertively in meetings without being perceived as aggressive.
Want to sound more assertive at work without coming across as aggressive? In this video, you’ll learn the exact phrases confident women leaders use to communicate with clarity, authority, and impact. If you’ve ever felt overlooked in meetings, struggled to speak up, or found yourself over-explaining or apologizing, this video will show you how to shift your language—and your presence—immediately. Backed by research in psychology and leadership communication, these strategies will help you sound more assertive , build executive presence, and ensure your ideas are heard and respected. In this video, you’ll learn: The common phrases that weaken your authority (and what to say instead) How to stop over-apologizing and speak with confidence Simple language shifts that instantly make you sound more assertive What to say when you’re interrupted or challenged How to communicate clearly without being labeled “aggressive” These are practical, real-world communication strategies designed specifically for women in leadership roles navigating high-stakes conversations. If you’re ready to elevate your voice, influence, and leadership presence—this is for you. 🎯 Download your free workbook…
Topics covered
- assertiveness
- women in leadership
- communication strategies
- executive presence
Keywords
- leadership communication
- confidence
- clarity
- impact
Mentioned in this episode
Products: Five Steps to Communicate with More Calm, Clarity, and Confidence workbook
Books & works: Five Steps to Communicate with More Calm, Clarity, and Confidence
More episodes of The Power of Peacefulness: Leading with Calm, Confidence and Clarity
- How AI Can Make You a Better Leader (Without Losing Your Voice) · June 6, 2026 · 18 min
- How to Stop Being Socially Awkward: A Practical Guide on What Actually Works · May 30, 2026 · 24 min
- Why Your Team Stops Telling You the Truth (And How to Fix It) | Leadership, Psychological Safety & Trust · May 30, 2026 · 23 min
- Drama Triangle Explained: Why Workplace Conflict Keeps Repeating and What to do About it · May 16, 2026 · 22 min
- The Leadership Blind Spots That Sabotage Your Team (and How to Fix Them) · May 9, 2026 · 23 min
- How to Break Down Silos at Work: 10 Proven Leadership Strategies for Women to Build Collaboration and Influence · April 25, 2026 · 18 min
Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the The Power of Peacefulness: Leading with Calm, Confidence and Clarity podcast page.