There's a reason stages are still dominated by men 3 to 1. And it's not what you think.
Your Community is Your Competitive Advantage
Here's what Gail Watson, founder of Women's Speakers Association, knows about building businesses: the entrepreneurial world operates on abundance, not scarcity. While corporate environments breed competition, entrepreneurial communities ask "How can I help you?" instead of "What can you do for me?"
The tactical move: Get intentional about your circle. Seek out communities of like-minded women entrepreneurs who are playing the same game you are. These aren't networking events where you hand out business cards - these are spaces where someone says "I have a podcast, why don't I interview you?" without expecting anything in return.
Take it further: When you have a dollar to spend, look for a woman to share it with first. This isn't charity - it's strategy. You're building the ecosystem that will eventually support your own growth.
Reframe the Fear, Change Everything
Stop calling yourself "not a speaker." You have conversations every day - with clients, teams, your audience. The only difference between that and "speaking" is the story you're telling yourself about it.
The tactical shift: Replace "I'm going to speak" with "I'm going to have a conversation and share some ideas. Take what works, leave what doesn't." Watch how this simple reframe changes your energy and your audience's response.
The service mindset: Your message isn't about you - it's for the person who needs to hear exactly what you have to say. That story you think everyone already knows? Someone is waiting for your version of it. The experience you've been through? There's a woman out there thinking she's the only one.
Your Difference is Your Business Strategy
Being a woman in your industry isn't something to downplay - it's your competitive edge. Whether you're in construction, tech, or consulting, your perspective as a woman creates unique value that your male competitors simply cannot offer.
The tactical implementation: Make your identity as a woman part of your messaging strategy. This could mean highlighting how you understand the challenges other women face, creating safer spaces for female clients, or bringing collaborative approaches to traditionally masculine industries.
The ripple effect: When you own being a woman in business, you give other women permission to do the same. You become part of the rising tide that changes entire industries.
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About Our Guest: Gail Watson is the founder of Women's Speakers Association, a global movement reaching over 120 countries that operates on the belief that no message is greater or less than your gifted message. Since 2011, she's been creating equal opportunities for women to share their voices, regardless of credentials or business tenure. She's also the curator of Voices of the 21st Century, a book series where women share their transformational stories. Learn more at womenspeakersassociation.com.
Until next week, founders! Remember, entrepreneurship isn't about having all the answers - it's about backing yourself when the answers aren't clear yet.
If you, like us, love to lean in and keep growing, we'd love to see you at our next free masterclass on Thought-Leadership & Personal Branding.
Vicki Abraham and Laura Ann Bell
Resilient Entrepreneurs Podcast | RE: Women Founders Circle
