Real Women, "Say it with Power!" By Betty J Jackson SPHR Professional Speaker | Journalist | Management| Consultant| BJ Magnum & Assoc.
During the #P2PX2014 Women’s Empowerment Seminar, presented by B J Magnum and Associates, keynote, Betty J. Jackson SPHR challenged her audience to, “appraise their pearls of power.” One area of empowerment that stifles many women's success is communication. Reluctance to communicate effectively is often a strong indicator of a lack of self-confidence. If women are to assume leadership roles and advance in their careers, confidence is an essential component of success.
Women who are confident will be more likely to take risks, volunteer for assignments and opportunities, be open to feedback and collaboration to achieve their goals. Confident women ask thoughtful questions and support a knowledgeable perspective that helps to move a conversation forward.
Jackson, who holds a B.A. Degree in Communications from San Francisco State University, says that because approximately 93% of communication is non-verbal, women can ease into their “Power Room” style by being cognizant of how they contribute to the conversation. How we behave sends powerful signals that either affirm or discount the message you hope to convey. Awareness of pitch, tone, pace and projection is also important because nearly 38% of our communication is conveyed through these unseen vehicles of our inner thoughts. Poise and genuine passion for the message also helps to build rapport with one’s audience. Betty J. Jackson SPHR, shares five helpful tips from “The Power Room” to consider as you plan for your next meeting:
Five Communication Keys from “The Power Room”
Take time to consider, “What is the real message I want to convey?”
Decide in advance what your point of view is on the subject matter
Think of two or three specific ways in which you will contribute to the conversation
Consider what the impression you want people to leave the conversation with
Call on at least two colleagues or friends who will help you prepare and practice
Jackson encourages her audiences to avoid using disclaimers when speaking. Saying, “I’m not sure or it’s just” send a quick negation of all previous statements. While it is fine to admit that you don’t know something, it is also important to offer that you will be happy to get that information or provide a resource that will support your position. Every woman has a perspective on a given topic, but the power is in consistently applying strategies that move the conversation forward and reflect positively upon your best and most authentic communication style.