Women speak and the world responds. But not always with respect. What should be just a tone of voice becomes a minefield, where any inflection can be interpreted as aggressiveness, submissiveness, or artificiality. In the digital age, where everything is recorded, shared, and judged, the way a woman communicates can be the difference between being heard or being silenced by the court of the internet.
“An assertive woman can be labeled as bossy. If she uses a softer tone, she may be seen as fragile. The problem isn’t how we speak, but how we are perceived. This creates an unfair and exhausting balancing act,” laments Micarla Lins, an expert in oratory and women’s communication.
The phenomenon of cancel culture amplifies this dilemma. Personalities like Meghan Markle, Anitta, and even heads of state face daily judgments about how they express themselves. “A single off-tone phrase can trigger a tsunami of criticism, regardless of the actual message. Society, trained to interpret women’s voices through outdated molds, reinforces stereotypes that hinder women’s rise to leadership and influential positions,” warns Lins.
But how to prevent communication from becoming a trap? Micarla offers some guidance:
- Tone awareness:Adjusting your voice doesn’t mean changing who you are, but understanding how your intonation impacts how your message is perceived.
- Strategic pauses:Speaking unhurriedly and with confidence reduces the chances of interruption and increases clarity in speech.
- Aligned body language:What you say should be in harmony with gestures and posture to avoid contradictions in communication.
- Resisting self-censorship:Many women adapt to standards to avoid judgment. Finding a balance between authenticity and strategy is essential.
“The internet can amplify prejudices, but it can also be a space for change. Women who master their communication transform their voices into tools of power, not oppression. The challenge isn’t just to speak, but to ensure the message is heard without distortion,” concludes Micarla.
