I N T R O D U C I N G T H E

She Speaks Program

It’s time to stop holding back and start holding the room.

From the moment we start to walk and talk, little girls learn that ‘Good Girls’ don’t boast, always smile nicely and avoid confrontation.

While these behaviours may win approval, they can also undermine our workplace presence, our professional contribution and our career advancement. And if ever we decide to burn the Good Girl script in frustration, pent-up resentment can lead us to do and say things we later regret.

If you:

  • Struggle to find the right words at the right time (or wind up saying too much at the wrong time).
  • Frequently find yourself saying ‘ yes’ when you want to say ‘no’ - and vice versa.
  • Feel overlooked for opportunities despite your expertise and experience.
  • Are sick of being labelled ‘emotional’ , ‘grumpy ’ , strident or ‘too much’ ...

then She Speaks is for you!

Gendered norms and expectations can influence what we say (and don’t say), how we say it, and how others interpret our message.

 Research consistently demonstrates that in mixed gender environments:

  • Men’s contributions account for about 75% of the available ‘speaking time’.
  • When women speak more frequently than their peers, they’re perceived as less competent, when men speak more frequently, they’re viewed as more competent.
  • Both men and women interrupt women more frequently than they interrupt men.
  • Adopting an assertive or competitive communication style tends to benefit men, but can trigger a backlash against women.
As long as these double standards exist, it’s an unfortunate reality that we need to equip women with the skills, tools and awareness to mitigate their impact while we advocate for broader change.

What you’ll learn:

Body language and vocal habits that will dial up your presence and power without feeling fake or awkward.

The precise language to use when expressing your opinion, dealing with interruptions and responding to inappropriate behaviour.

Techniques for saying ‘no’ and establishing boundaries that boost your professional reputation and strengthen your performance.

How to start (and maintain!) a meaningful conversation with almost anyone.

A simple tool to dial down your pesky inner-critic, overcome Imposter Syndrome and start listening to your inner coach.

Why a focus on building confidence can be counterproductive, and what to do instead.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW:

 Live, 1-hr online Preparation Session

This session lays the foundations for the in-person workshop and provides detailed instructions on preparation activities, including:

  • A guided Self-Reflection exercise
  • Seeking feedback from trusted colleagues, associates, friends and/or family members.

Two-day in-person Skills Workshop

Two days of high-impact learning, exploration and skill development across four domains:

  • Unlearn gender-based messages

Identify how internalised stereotypes shape your behaviours, learn to recognise and disrupt gendered dynamics and let go of habits that no longer serve you.

  • Communicate for connection

Learn how to turn small-talk into meaningful connection, build trust quickly and navigate conflict.

  • Conversational courage

Harness the power of AWE - Authority, Warmth and Energy - to say what needs to be said without compromising your values or reputation.

  • Make your presence matter

Explore new ways to use your voice, language, body and face to express yourself with clarity and conviction in any professional setting.

Live, 1.5-hr online Implementation Session

Participants gather a fortnight after the workshop to troubleshoot, ask questions, celebrate successes and stay accountable for ongoing progress.

THE FACILITATOR: ANNA LEE

Anna started her first business 17 years ago, when her firstborn was 6 weeks old (not something she recommends!). Her mission: to help women take control of their lives and careers.

After working with hundreds of women, from fresh graduates to CEOs, Anna joined forces with her brother Diarmid at Leed Consulting partnering to tackle workplace inclusion at a systemic level.

Anna returned to the the women’s development sphere in 2021 with the launch of Hacks for Her, which focuses on equipping women with the career navigation skills required to succeed in workplaces that, for the most part, are still designed for and by men.

CLIENT SAY:

- Kate Martin Finance Manager

“Anna Lee was incredible. Strong, warm, captivating a nd so knowledgeable. She held the space so beautifully for everyone and where we were all at on our unique journeys. I wouldn’t be where I am without her. ”

She Speaks is for you if:

✔  You ’re ready to take a more proactive, intentional approach to your workplace presence and communication.

✔  You ’re open to building your self-awareness through reflection, feedback and sharing your experiences and learnings with other women.

✔  You ’re seeking specific, actionable tools that deliver immediate improvements in your impact and influence.

She Speaks is NOT for you if:

✗  You have no interest in exploring how gender can influence self-perception, communication and workplace dynamics.

✗  You ’re looking for presentation skills training - She Speaks will help with presenting, but the main focus is workplace communication.

✗  You 're not in a space where you ’re open to trying new things, exploring different perspectives or working with others in small groups.