#WirArbeitenDran — guest on the Working Women Podcast

“How can I discuss things more confidently, Marietta Gädeke?” #WirArbeitenDran

That is what journalists and powerhouse women Kristina Appel and Julia Möhn from EMOTION magazine wanted to discuss with me on their podcast #WirArbeitenDran — the Working Women Podcast. And that is exactly what we did!

Gender stereotypes vs. your own style

I found the question of gender stereotypes in leadership communication particularly fascinating. Because I am torn on this myself. On the one hand, I know how important it can be to play the status game and present yourself in the right way. Yes, sometimes even to put yourself center stage! But as a woman leader, do I always want to do that? Doesn’t Female leadership mean precisely that we find our own effective leadership and communication style?

Honestly, there is no easy, quick answer. But we took the time, looked at different strategies and concrete tips and, along the way, had a wonderful conversation about debating, quick thinking and persuasiveness. The title #wirarbeitendran really fits!

“An episode that works like a workbook” #WirArbeitenDran

The result was a genuinely entertaining conversation packed with value. Or, as Julia so nicely put it: “An episode that works like a workbook.”

With strategies each of us can actively put into practice — in the spirit of #WirArbeitenDran:

• Preparation is incredibly important for developing your arguments in real depth
• Be able to communicate status! You need it in situations shaped by status
• But depending on whom you are speaking to, “powerless communication” can be more effective than flaunting your status (an incredibly fascinating concept researched by Adam Grant).
• Team communication: do I bring firmness or softness into the conversation?
• Diversity: talk about the ways your communication differs. That is far more effective than judging the other person with “You communicate incorrectly!”

Have a listen now:

You can find #WirArbeitenDran on Soundcloud or wherever you listen to podcasts — and of course our conversation is also on Spotify 😉