Yin versus Yang

The qualities typically associated with women (empathy, emotional intelligence, collaboration, inclusiveness, listening, nurturing …) are now widely seen as essential to effective leadership. 

But they are too easily bullied out of the boardroom.  Senior women walk away from the microaggressions and brokenness of unsupportive ‘boys’ club’ cultures to set up their own (often highly successful) businesses, where they can create an environment that suits them. 

And the women who do persevere and make it to the C-suite?  They often sacrifice who they are in the process, adopting fake personas as a way of protecting and promoting themselves.  They're sometimes labelled ‘men in skirts’ - and lose the very qualities that are so badly needed at the top of organisations. 

Imposer syndrome 

Imposter Syndrome: "I shouldn't be here - but I am."

Imposer Syndrome:  "I should be there - but I'm not."

“Senior women who want to take that final step up into the C-suite are often held back by what I describe as ‘imposer syndrome’.  This is distinctly different from imposter syndrome:  “I shouldn’t really be here - but I am.”   These women have no doubt they’re good enough, want the job, know they’ll do it brilliantly … but something holds them back: "I should really be there - but I'm not."  They have a fear of imposing themselves, of putting themseleves forward and pushing for something they really want: “I absolutely belong there … I just don’t dare take the leap; or I'm not strong enough to overcome the obstacles in my way.”

Julia Goodman, Founder You Brand Coach

Overcoming Imposer Syndrome

In order to take their place, as themselves, at the very top of corporations, women need to develop and exercise certain qualities typically considered 'male': assertiveness, decisiveness, competitiveness, dominance, risk-taking, ambition, confidence.  These give their invaluable ‘feminine’ qualities a strong platform from which to propagate and transform the culture, stopping men leading with their egos, changing established mindsets and acting as high profile role-models for women throughout the organisation.

You Brand Coaching helps senior women develop the confidence, courage and communication skills to take the leap. 

How it works

Here are a couple of clients talking about their experience ...

Alex Hess: how I became President at Cinven

Perception The psychological impact of how you come across. Impact on the listener.  One-on-one, in front of a large audience, around a board meeting.

Negotiation and confidence Emotional negotiation: if you have the tools to ensure you are being understood, it’s hugely impactful.  It boosts your self-confidence.  And it feeds on itself.

Engagement Just how engaged you have to be to get you and your message across: I was shattered!

Listening The importance of listening: respond don’t react. Knowing where your audience is.

Jules Chappell OBE: You Brand transformed my profile

I've learned that looking and sounding normal doesn't feel normal!  At least not to start with.  It's a skill you learn.  

I now have the tools to analyse and be much more deliberate about how I come across.

I can strategise the impact I want to make, and use performance techniques to build my gravitas and assert my presence.

The Senior to C-Suite Programme ...

... is taken in-person one-to-one, and typically lasts 4 days over 2 - 3 months.  It is immersive, experiential, challenging, liberating - and fun!

Four days to change your life

Is it right for you?  Why not book a call to find out?

 Email: enquiries@personalpresentation.com