Women leaders across industries shared their insight on navigating the workplace with confidence, building influence and negotiating with strength. Here are ten powerful lessons to carry into any room, conversation or high-pressure moment.
- PREPARATION IS THE FOUNDATION OF CONFIDENCE
Time and again, women leaders emphasize that confidence starts before you even enter the room.
“Preparation and clarity fuel my confidence. When I understand the ‘why’ behind a project and know the details inside and out, it gives me direction and drive.” — Mary Cathryn Brooks, Southern Orthopaedic Surgeons
“In high-pressure situations, I lean on the confidence that comes from being well-prepared, using positive self-talk to stay focused and grounded.” — Cristy Andrews, Warren Averett
“If you’re distracted, always chasing something and look unkempt, why would anyone take you seriously? Ask yourself if you are prepared, capable, open to change and confident in who you are.” — Sandra Lucas, Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs
- SPEAK WITH INTENTION—NOT VOLUME
True authority isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room.
“Choose your words, and when you speak them, wisely. The loudest with the most to say is not always the wisest.” — Josie Young, Russell Construction
“Don’t be afraid to speak up. Stay on topic and understand you are in the room for a reason, and your input is valuable.” — Marilyn Hawkins, ASE Credit Union
“I sit tall, speak clearly and make sure my presence is felt. I don’t shrink—I show up fully. I’ve learned that confidence isn’t about being the loudest voice, it’s about being the most intentional.” — Tasha Carter, Maximized Growth
“Think before you speak. Only speak when you have something to add that will inform or improve the conversation.” — Janeese Spencer, Venture Life Coaching
- OWN YOUR SEAT AT THE TABLE
Start with recognizing your value and claiming the space you deserve—confidence grows when you own your perspective and speak with authority.
“Being the only woman at the table is an opportunity, not a setback. It means your perspective has the power to broaden the conversation.” — Jessica Powell, New Waters Realty
“I remind myself that I was invited to the table because I bring value. I project confidence by engaging in conversations, maintaining eye contact, actively listening and reminding myself that I have just as much right to be there as anyone else.” — Anita Carter, Jim Wilson & Associates
- INFLUENCE COMES FROM CONNECTION
Relationships and consistency build long-term credibility.
“Influence isn’t just about titles—it’s about trust. People follow leaders who are authentic, reliable and willing to help others grow.” — Tasha Carter, Maximized Growth
“First, you must earn the trust of those in the room and do a lot of listening. Find the right balance of confidence and humility, and a little humor never hurts.” — Cindy Scott, Jackson Thornton
“Consistency. I show up for my team, deliver good work and offer solutions. Over time, those small, steady efforts build trust, and trust creates influence.” — Marcia Johnson, River Bank & Trust
- NEGOTIATION ISN’T A BATTLE— IT’S COLLABORATION
Approach negotiations as problem-solving rather than confrontation.
“Be prepared and use open-ended questions to gather information instead of being quick to speak. Asking questions back instead of just making a quick response helps me really understand why a person may be presenting the topic a certain way.” — Brittany Batrez, Absolute Termite & Pest Control
“First, listen to the other side and look for common ground. Always protect your integrity, never compromise it. The goal is a win-win, but even if that isn’t possible, you can walk away knowing you did what was right.” — Anita Carter, Jim Wilson & Associates
“If you are not desperate for a deal, you can negotiate from a place of true strength and confidence. The ultimate goal is to ensure that all parties achieve a win-win outcome, while maintaining a good relationship.” — Monette Bosby, ERA Weeks and Browning Realty
- SILENCE IS A STRATEGY
Sometimes, the strongest thing you can say is nothing at all.
“The best advice I’ve received is, ‘Silence is your friend.’ My natural instinct is to fill every pause with words, but I’ve learned that leaving space can be powerful. Silence allows me to hold my ground, gives the other side room to reconsider and often leads to better outcomes.” — Meghan Cochrane, YMCA of Greater Montgomery
“Silence is a strategy. Say what you need to say, then let it land.” — Tasha Carter, Maximized Growth
- ADVOCATE FOR YOURSELF—BECAUSE NO ONE ELSE WILL DO IT FOR YOU
The most consistent advice: Don’t wait for permission to speak, ask or lead.
“BELIEVE. Believe in yourself, your product and your ability to move forward in the business setting. This simple word helps me navigate through high-pressure situations.” — Casie Scott, Jo Wells Boutique
“Own your seat at the table—don’t wait for someone to invite you into the conversation. Also, don’t be afraid to advocate for your ideas (and yourself!).” — Hayley Richards, Wynlakes Golf & Country Club
- KNOW YOUR WORTH—AND DON’T UNDERVALUE YOURSELF
Undervaluing contributions is one of the most common mistakes women make, especially in negotiations.
“Don’t downplay your expertise. Too often, women will soften their words with phrases like ‘I think’ or ‘I’m not sure, but…’, and it undermines how capable they really are. State your ideas clearly and with confidence.” — Abbie Weldon, Rooted & Local Realty
“One of the biggest mistakes is undervaluing yourself — asking for less than what you truly need. Another is apologizing before even making the request. To avoid this, I always encourage women to do their research, know their worth and make their ask confidently and unapologetically.” — Meghan Cochrane, YMCA of Greater Montgomery
- CALM IS POWER
Staying centered—even when things get stressful—signals assurance.
“My most successful practice is to try and remain calm and to embrace the imperfection. Confident people can make mistakes and recover gracefully.” — Cindy Scott, Jackson Thornton
“Staying calm allows for clear thinking and leads to good decision-making. I also like to ‘practice the pause.’” — Shana Genenbacher, KW Montgomery
“Breathe in. Breathe out. It sounds simple—because it is. But don’t underestimate it. We teach our small children breathing techniques to help them calm down when they’re hurt or upset, so why wouldn’t it work for adults too?” — Kadie Agnew, Baptist Health
- CONFIDENCE IN DECISION MAKING = RESPECT
When you lead with clear intentions and steady confidence, others naturally take notice—and respect follows.
“Confidence paired with grace is what earns lasting respect as a decision-maker.” — Jessica Powell, New Waters Realty
“Get clear on your values, interpret the data life gives you and move — because hesitation costs more than mistakes. Each time you choose clarity over confusion, you build momentum.” — Deanna Mitchell, Exit Realty Legacy Homes
“Leadership means seeing the big picture and making the right call even when others don’t see it. A good track record of results is the best way to be taken seriously as a decision-maker, and that’s within your control.” — Amy Floyd, Main Street Vintage Market
