Women Speakers and Presenters – Where Are You?
Speaking with Marion Chapsal confirmed my understanding of why women speakers are under-represented. Both of us agreed that it is purely lack of confidence.
Let me interject here and argue against my statement. As a (woman) reader I would be annoyed (mildly put) to hear that in 2010 women lack confidence.
Lack of confidence…WT!
My theory contradicts my core beliefs and values. I’ve lived through women’s lib and have studied with confident, well educated female Gen Y’s. With the strides that women have made, why are they still the under represented gender in presentations and speaking engagements?
Marion lives in Beaujoulais country in France and I live on the west coast of Canada and from different geographic perspectives have made the same observation. Women hang back, they don’t elbow in to position themselves on the stage. Men present with bravado, women exhibit self-doubt. Women thank the audience for coming, men expect filled seats. Yes, all generalizations. However I am speaking from observation. Yes, I have seen strong, confident women speakers although not in majority.
When I conduct research for my blog I am always looking for clips of women orators/presenters. I have found meager pickings but have found many powerful examples of fine male orators. Women where are you? Challenge me, I would like to hang on to my theory of strong, confident women taking on stages and podiums.
To women who are contemplating taking a speaking role – take the leap and present with confidence. And men encourage your female colleagues to get up on the stage.
Come and Dance With Me
Michal Zacharzewski sxc
Tags: Confidence, Presentations, Speakers, Woman
Wonderful post! All too often women take a back seat to large events and speaking engagements. However, audiences seem to better relate and understand women orators/presenters when they finally do take the stage.
What tips would you give to women that want to break into the spotlight and begin public speaking in their industry? How do they find speaking engagements that welcome them with open arms?
Shannon- Beginning with small steps such as speaking at aligned associations or nonprofits where you share your industries information or your interests is a terrific way to start. Great confidence builder.
Don’t take for granted what you have learned and understand that your research and newly acquired knowledge is not common knowledge. It is inspiring and a gift to share what you know.
After taking the small steps, sharpen your elbows and speak up. If you don’t jump in and let others know that you are interested in presenting and speaking, understandably others can’t read your mind.