Have you ever been told you're "too bossy" or "too direct" and been left wondering what you're actually supposed to do with that feedback? For many women leaders, vague feedback about communication style can undermine confidence far more than they support growth. The problem isn't always the feedback itself, it's that opinions about communication style are often presented as facts, making it difficult to know what genuinely needs to change.

Instead of accepting personality-based labels at face value, discover how to separate interpretation of communication style from observable behaviour so you can make informed decisions about your leadership.

Through practical examples and real coaching experiences, you'll learn why effective leadership feedback should always focus on behaviours rather than assumptions, and how curiosity can help you gain clarity instead of self-doubt.

You'll hear practical assertiveness tips for responding to difficult conversations, including the questions that encourage meaningful dialogue, uncover useful evidence and shift vague criticism into actionable guidance. Whether you've been told you need more executive presence, received confusing executive feedback, or questioned your own communication style, these strategies will help you protect your confidence while continuing to grow as a leader.

The goal isn't to become a different person or make yourself smaller. It's about understanding which feedback genuinely supports your development and which comments belong in the bin. The strongest women leaders don't stop speaking up because of labels, they seek clarity, make intentional choices and continue leading with confidence. If you're ready to strengthen your leadership without losing your authentic voice, these insights will help you move forward with purpose as one of many capable women leaders navigating complex workplace feedback.

If recent feedback has left you feeling confused or questioning yourself, please book an Explo ation Conversation and let's work through it together so you can move forward with confidence.

Simply click the link and share a few details and Liz will be in touch www.boldmovescoach.co.uk/connect

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Leadership Communication in Action is a podcast for women who are capable, thoughtful, and quietly questioning how they’re showing up at work and in life.

I’m Liz Boswell. I work with professional women who don’t need more advice, but do need space to think clearly, especially when the pressure is on.

Each episode is a calm, mentoring-style conversation grounded in real client moments. We look at the stories people carry, the behaviours those stories create, and the small, practical shifts that change how things land day to day.

You’ll hear honest reflections, psychologically precise questions, and simple actions you can try immediately, without overhauling your life or becoming someone else.

If you’re stepping into more responsibility, more visibility, or simply feeling the weight of decisions that matter, this podcast is here to help you slow things down, think more clearly, and move forward in a way that feels grounded and real.

A quiet companion for people who want to make better moves, not louder ones.