Even with significant advances made in recent decades, gender team in the job market is still a major challenge for women, especially those in management positions. According to the 2022 Demographic Census, Brazil has more than half of the population composed of women (51.5%). However, only 38% of leadership positions in the country are occupied by them, according to a study by FIA Business School and released by Forbes.
The research revealed that, in many ways, female leadership is better evaluated than male. For 50% of respondents, CEOs were considered excellent in their management, while men had 43% in the same evaluation. Regarding confidence in leaders, they had a reach of 79% of respondents and men got 72%.
Differences in communication between men and women
Even with data that reiterates the quality of female managementsome stereotypes still remain. While they are perceived as more likely to value proximity, men were characterized as more conservative and focused on results.
Among the many explanations for this differentiation, the way of speaking. “Men and women are different in these aspects and neuroscience shows this. In general, men are more direct and objective. Women use more details, emphasize emotion, want deeper connections, even in work issues, ”says Valdireni Alves, a specialist in assertive communication and oratory.
Communication is power
For Valdireni Alves, women who develop the ability to express ideas, opinions and feelings clearly, objectively, respectfully and with confidence, position themselves more safely in their leader role.
“Communication is power, and oratory is for life. In a world where women still face challenges, such as recurring interruptions in meetings and the need to prove competence, mastering communication makes all the difference. The woman who communicates well is more heard, respected, becomes reference, inspires other women and lives happier, ”he emphasizes.
Emotional intelligence
Another more easily perceived difference between those in leadership positions involves the way they deal with emotions. While the woman tends to be more affectionate and emotional, the man is often more straightforward in words.
“When used with emotional intelligencethe demonstration of feelings is a positive point for generating connection, empathy, inspiring and motivating teams. It is only negative when emotion is too much and prevents assertive communication. This can express insecurity and a need to be accepted, ”says the expert in assertive communication and oratory.

Developing assertive communication
For leaders and entrepreneurs who seek to develop oratory and improve communication capacity, Valdireni Alves, who is also a journalist, speaker and writer, lists 5 tips. Check it out!
1. The obvious needs to be said
Clearly speak what you want or not. Remember: in communication There is no obvious.
2. Speak safely
Avoid starting phrases with “I think”, “maybe” or “sorry to bother.” Do not use excess diminutive. Express yourself with truth.
3. Use the right tone of voice
Neither aggressive nor passive. Find a balance firm and friendly.
4. Learn to say “no” without guilt
No need to explain too much. One simple: “This is not within my priorities at the moment,” is enough.
5. Use more points and less commas
POINUE CORRECTLY. Breathe between the sentences. Be objective.
Por Marlise Groth