The Challenge:

 

A client in the Sustainability sector recognised a gender representation gap within their leadership pipeline. While women made up a healthy proportion of their sales team, few were putting themselves forward for open leadership roles. This raised concern, as it suggested a potential disconnect between the company’s diversity goals and the lived experiences of its employees. Leadership sought to understand not only the internal barriers these women might be facing—such as confidence, visibility, or support—but also the broader cultural and systemic challenges within the sustainability and sales sectors that could be contributing to this hesitation. The organisation was keen to uncover what might be holding women back from progressing, despite their strong presence at the operational level.

 

The Approach:

To uncover the root causes behind the lack of female applicants for leadership roles, the first step was to conduct an anonymous internal survey. This gave the team a safe space to share their experiences and challenges openly. Insights from the survey were then shared with leadership, along with recommended focus areas for development.

These insights shaped a tailored workshop for 60 women in sales – ranging from early-career to experienced professionals. The workshop combined teaching, storytelling, and interactive breakout sessions. The workshop centred on practical skill-building, using a real-world scenario provided by the organisation to ensure relevance. Participants had the opportunity to apply new techniques and demonstrate their learning in front of senior leaders by delivering a sales pitch—building both confidence and visibility in the process.

Key components included:

• Communication:
  • Understanding unconscious bias
  • Exploring the “why” behind communication challenges
  • Tools for effective connection: the 5 elements of impactful communication
  • Presentation and pitch preparation techniques
  • Breakout groups exploring bias and cross-cultural differences in persuasion
• Confidence:
  • Distinguishing self-esteem vs. self-confidence
  • Identifying limiting beliefs
  • Building confidence from within
  • The power of storytelling
• Charisma:
  • Influence and persuasion through the lens of Aristotle’s persuasion triad
  • Cross-cultural perspectives on influence
• Composure:
  • Cultivating a growth mindset
  • Developing a personal leadership brand
  • Authentic networking strategies

 

The Outcome:

 

Participants left the workshop with increased clarity, confidence, and a deeper connection to their unique voice. They reported feeling more empowered to step forward and embrace leadership opportunities.

Key takeaways included:

• The importance of using their voice and trusting in their own capabilities.

• Techniques to manage nerves, such as slowing down and breathing.

• The value of courage and consistent practice.

• Greater willingness to speak up and be seen.

• How to use storytelling effectively in sales conversations.

• Awareness of personal biases and how these can shape limiting beliefs.

These insights not only boosted individual confidence but also created momentum for a more inclusive and supportive leadership culture.

 

Feedback from delegates:

‘Honestly one of the best training I have ever received. The ability to be vulnerable and to educate others is a gift. Thank you so much for inspiring us with your powerful story, teaching us to use our voice, and sharing this experience with us.’

 ‘Inspiring week!!! Thank you for inspiring and facilitating those sessions’.

“It was such a privilege for having you here with us. The first Women in Sales event couldn’t be this successful without You 🙂 I hope we can work together in the future as well! Your presentation, workshop and your storytelling made an impact here”.