Gender Stereotypes - celebrating assertiveness in female leaders in the NHS.

As I work with female leaders in the NHS, I constantly hear one thing: they want to thrive. 

Not just for their own growth, but to improve patient outcomes and contribute to better healthcare delivery.

But too often, these women face challenges like gender bias and ageism, and when they speak up, they’re dismissed, which undermines their confidence.

In this blog, I’ll explore the importance of confidence and assertiveness, how to maintain it when it’s negatively perceived, and share some leadership strategies that can help.

Why confidence and assertiveness matter

If you’re an assertive female leader in the NHS, you’re probably juggling competing demands; work, home life, and the reality of underrepresentation in leadership roles.

It's exhausting, and the constant battle with biases and feeling isolated can bring on imposter syndrome.

It’s tough when there aren’t enough role models to look up to. Especially considering women make up the majority of the healthcare workforce.

Over time, these struggles can chip away at your confidence, leaving you hesitant to speak up or take risks.

But let’s be clear: your confidence and assertiveness are strengths.

As a leader, especially in the fast-paced, high-pressure world of the NHS, you need to make tough decisions, advocate for your team and patients, and navigate complex dynamics.

That’s where confidence comes in.

It’s about trusting your judgment and making decisions with conviction. Assertiveness ensures your voice is heard and your contributions are valued.

In an ever-evolving healthcare system, leaders also need to drive change. Confidence in your ideas is key to being a catalyst for innovation.

How to boost your assertiveness and confidence

I know from experience that even when it feels like your assertiveness is being misunderstood or knocked down, there are ways to get it back:

1. Know your worth: Recognise and celebrate what you’ve already accomplished. Take stock of your achievements and remind yourself the expertise you're bringing to the table.

2. Speak up and advocate for yourself. This is huge!!

Whether it’s applying for promotions, negotiating a salary increase, or taking the next step in your career, articulate your wants and needs. No one else will do it for you.

3. Network like mad because visibility matters.

The more you network, the more opportunities you’ll have for mentorship, sponsorship, and career advancement.

4. Develop assertiveness skills. This is a skill you can hone over time.

Practice being more direct and clear in your communication, and don’t shy away from giving constructive feedback.

5. Set clear boundaries and protect your time and energy. Defining what you’re willing to accept, is essential for maintaining your leadership presence.

6. Keep learning and investing in your development to sharpen your leadership skills. Whether it’s through courses, coaching, or networking, ongoing growth is vital for career progression.

7. Work on your resilience. You’ve got it. And you’ve demonstrated it time and time again. Trust that you can navigate challenges, just as you’ve done in the past.

Remember, failure is not the end, it’s a chance to grow.

Embrace your confidence and assertive leadership

When it comes to leadership, confidence and assertiveness aren’t about conforming to stereotypes or expectations.

It’s about embracing your authentic self, leading with conviction, and staying true to your unique strengths.

Remember: the challenges you face are not insurmountable.

And you’re definitely not alone.

Seek support, like the NHS Next Level Leadership Programme, where you can start building the confidence and skills to empower yourself. And others.

As female leaders, you have the power to drive change, inspire innovation, and pave the way for the next generation of women in the NHS.

Your assertiveness is your power. 

Don't let anyone make you feel small for owning it.

Jackie