Welcome back to Living While Leading, the podcast where we discuss what it takes to lead with purpose, clarity, and courage… without burning out or losing yourself in the process. I’m so glad you’re here.
Now, let me tell you a quick story.
A few years ago, I was preparing for a presentation with a senior leadership team. It was a big deal. Budget decisions were on the table, and I had the data, logic, and bullet points. I thought I was ready.
But halfway through the meeting, I realized I was losing the room. Eyes glazed over, nods turned into blank stares. I wrapped up, hoping the numbers would speak for themselves.
But they didn’t.
Afterward, a colleague pulled me aside and said, “Your data is solid, but you didn’t connect with what mattered to them. You led with what you cared about, but not what they needed to hear.”
That stung.
But that conversation changed everything.
It was the first time I understood that how we communicate is just as important as what we say. Stay tuned, and I’ll introduce you to the Four Communication Dials, which will transform your communication effectiveness.
Find the full transcript and other resources for women leaders at LivingWhilelLeading.com/69.
Why Career Stagnation Costs Ambitious Women Thousands in Pay and Increases Burnout Risk
So let’s start with a truth we don’t say out loud often enough:
If you want to change something, something has to change. And for an ambitious woman like you, navigating a career and life, that change usually starts with how we show up in the room.
Here’s what you’re up against:
- In early 2025, employees who stayed in their roles saw a 4.6% pay bump. But job switchers? They got 6.5%.
- And here’s the kicker: those who feel stagnant in their careers are more likely to suffer from anxiety-related disorders like burnout.
Are you waiting for the system to reward you? For someone to tap you on the shoulder and say, “It’s your turn”? That’s a costly gamble.
So what can you do?
You can learn to master the Four Communication Dials.
The Four Key Communication Styles Every Woman Leader Needs to Master
Think of communication like a soundboard. You can turn up or down four dials based on who you’re speaking to and what outcome you’re aiming for. These dials are:
- Analytical – data-driven, precise, logical.
- Empathic – relational, curious, emotionally attuned.
- Directive – decisive, clear, action-oriented.
- Visionary – big-picture, inspiring, possibility-focused.
Top leaders don’t get stuck using just one style: They flex across all four. Because mastery means knowing which dial the moment (and the person) requires.
A Quick, High‑Impact Communication Hack for Women in Leadership
So, here’s one high-impact move you can try this month. I call it the 90-Second Dial Check.
Before your next big meeting or conversation:
- Ask yourself: What outcome do I need here? Approval? Budget? Buy-in?
- Then ask: Which dial will move this person—or this room—forward?
- Start the conversation using that style.
Here’s what that might sound like.
Let’s say you’re naturally analytical. Your reflex is to show up with spreadsheets and numbers. But the person across the table is a big-picture thinker. Instead of jumping into the spreadsheet, start with: “What does success feel like for each of us?”
Now guess what? You’ve just tuned your message to their frequency.
How Strategic Communication Dials Propel Women from Contributors to Indispensable Leaders
Now, I want to say something specifically to those who’ve been told they’re “too nice,” “too quiet,” or even “too much.” You’re already outperforming on collaboration and innovation metrics. You’re already adding value.
But mastering these communication skills?
That’s how you shift from being a reliable contributor to becoming an indispensable force in the room.
It’s how you move people’s perception from “She’s good” to “We can’t do this without her.”
You can be your authentic self while expanding how you’re seen.
And it’s one of the most powerful levers for promotion, pay growth, and peace of mind.
Next Steps for Ambitious Women: Coaching Strategies to Amplify Your Influence and Fast‑Track Promotions
If this resonates with you, check out some of our earlier episodes, especially the ones on visibility, boundaries, and strategic refusal. They’re packed with practical tools for women just like you.
And if you’re done waiting for others to recognize your worth and ready to OWN your future, one intentional step at a time, reach out. I support high-performing women in shifting their communication, impact, and career trajectories without burning out. There’s no pressure, just possibility.
Remember, you’re the solution to claiming what’s important to you.
