WFPG and WIIS hosted Lynn Fahselt and Dorry Levine from ReThink Media for an interactive workshop on how to avoid common communications mistakes and to elevate and amplify fellow women’s voices in meetings and in the workplace. They covered why it is so important for women to engage in these conversations, as well as the most common errors and strategies to counter these pitfalls both individually and institutionally.

The speakers noted that all genders often perceive the same strengths and weaknesses when reflecting on both their own and others’ communication styles. Some of the traps that women often fall into include: using passive communication; getting interrupted; using filler language; allowing others to take credit; being unable to say no; feeling small; and “impost-her” syndrome. Fahselt shares tips on how to break out of these molds in her recent blog post.

Among participants, the inability to speak up and the tendency to over-apologize resonated the most. Through intentional exercises and brief mental exercises, Fahselt and Levine encouraged confidence and assertiveness among participants and encouraged them to take these skills back into the workplace. This event was part of our Professional Development Series co-hosted by Women in International Security. Members can view key takeaways and watch a recording here. This program was a part of our Professional Development Series co-hosted by Women In International Security. Members can watch a recording here or on our Member Career Resources page.

Thank you to our speakers!