Ladies, let’s be real. Climbing the corporate ladder in a male-dominated industry can sometimes feel like trying to run a marathon in stilettos, exhausting, painful, and full of obstacles designed to slow you down. But fear not! If you’ve ever been talked over in a meeting, mistaken for the assistant (again), or received unsolicited “advice” from a well-meaning but clueless colleague, this one’s for you.
Here are 10 ways to make sure they take you seriously, without sacrificing your sanity or your soul.
1. Speak with Authority (Even When You’re Internally Screaming)
If you sound uncertain, people will treat you like you don’t belong. Speak with confidence, hold eye contact, and own your space. Bonus tip: If someone interrupts you, don’t say, “Oh, sorry!” Say, “I wasn’t finished yet.” Then continue like the queen you are.
2. Master the Art of the Power Outfit
Clothes don’t make the woman, but they do make people listen to her differently. Find a style that screams, “I’m here to dominate,” not “I’m here to take notes for Bob.” Structured blazers, bold colors, and killer shoes? Yes, please.
3. Stop Over-Apologizing
Newsflash: You don’t need to say “sorry” every time you state an opinion, exist in a meeting, or take up space. Replace “Sorry, but…” with “Here’s what I think…” Watch the room shift in real-time.
4. Command the Room Like a Boss (Literally)
Men naturally take up space. Do the same. Sit at the table, not on the sidelines. Take up physical space, use intentional hand gestures, and lean in, because shrinking yourself does not make you more likable; it makes you invisible.
5. Play the Strategic Networking Game
It’s not just about working hard, it’s about working smart. Build relationships with decision-makers, mentors, and allies who will champion you when you’re not in the room. If the boys are hitting the golf course, find your own way to connect. (Whiskey tasting, anyone?)
6. Master the Poker Face
That moment when Chad explains your own idea to you? Or when someone calls you “sweetheart” in a meeting? Instead of losing it, master the art of the deadly pause. A well-timed silence and an unimpressed stare can be more powerful than words.
7. Use Data Like a Weapon
Opinions can be debated. Cold, hard numbers? Not so much. When making a point, back it up with facts, metrics, and receipts. It’s much harder for someone to dismiss you when the evidence is bulletproof.
8. Call Out Bias (But Make It Look Effortless)
If a male colleague repeats what you just said and gets all the credit, say, “Thanks for reinforcing my point, Tom.” If you notice the women in the room being ignored, say, “I’d love to hear what Sarah thinks about this.” Subtle, strategic, and oh-so-effective.
9. Build an Unshakable Support System
Find your tribe, whether it’s mentors, sponsors, or that one badass colleague who always has your back in meetings. Success in a male-dominated field isn’t a solo mission. Surround yourself with people who see your brilliance and aren’t afraid to remind you of it.
10. Own Your Success (Because No One Else Will)
Stop downplaying your achievements. You earned that promotion, that raise, that client deal. Say it loud, say it proud. If you don’t advocate for yourself, who will?
Final Thoughts: Ready to Take Up Space?
The reality is, the workplace wasn’t designed with us in mind, but that doesn’t mean we can’t own it. The more we show up, speak up, and refuse to be sidelined, the more we change the game for future generations.
Now tell me, what’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your industry? Drop it in the comments, I’d love to hear your war stories (and help you crush them).