Karina Hayat on How Women Can Own Their Space in Male-Dominated Meetings?

In professional environments that are still predominantly male, being the only woman in the room can be an intense and often isolating experience. Whether it’s a high-stakes board meeting, a tech-heavy discussion, or a leadership team strategy session, women often face unique challenges, such as being dismissed, underestimated, or ignored altogether. However, with the right mindset and approach, this situation can also serve as a unique opportunity to establish authority, build resilience, and carve out space for future generations of women in leadership.

Drawing from my own journey as the only woman in many rooms, I’ll share specific strategies I’ve used to overcome these barriers, take up space, and use my position as an opportunity for growth. These strategies go beyond general advice, offering tangible methods for success in male-dominated environments.

1. Rewriting the Script of “Being the Only Woman

There’s power in rethinking your role as the only woman in the room. When you enter a space where you stand out due to your gender, it’s easy to feel like an anomaly, but reframing this narrative is critical. Instead of internalizing isolation, try to see yourself as an innovator, someone who’s breaking down barriers and proving that women can thrive in any environment.

Women often underestimate the power of representation. Just by showing up and excelling in spaces traditionally occupied by men, you challenge existing norms. You become the blueprint for others to follow.

This shift in thinking allows you to embrace your presence as not just a personal achievement but a beacon for future women who want to occupy similar spaces. With each move, you not only advance your own career but also contribute to systemic change within your industry.

2. Speak with Purpose and Own Your Space

One of the most significant challenges women face in male-dominated settings is having their voices heard. Studies show that women are interrupted more frequently than men, and their points are often overlooked until repeated by someone else.

Overcoming this requires a strategic approach:

• Start Strong and Early: Whenever possible, initiate conversations. By speaking up early in meetings, you assert yourself as a key participant, rather than waiting for your turn. This immediately establishes your authority and presence.
• Avoid Softening Language: It’s easy to slip into language patterns that undermine your authority—such as using qualifiers (“I think,” “Maybe this could work”). Instead, use assertive statements: “I suggest,” “Here’s a solution,” or “Let’s explore this idea further.”
• Master the Art of Interruption: If someone cuts you off, address it directly but diplomatically. For instance, you might say, “I was in the middle of making a point, and I’d like to finish.” This helps others recognize that your words are valuable and deserve attention.
• Give Space to Others: It may feel counter-intuitive, but supporting others—especially those who are more marginalized—can amplify your own voice. When you uplift others, you simultaneously demonstrate leadership and establish your role as an influencer within the group.

Remember, you don’t have to be loud to be heard. But you must speak with clarity, precision, and authority.

3. Exude Confidence, Even When You Feel Anything But

Confidence, often perceived as innate, can be cultivated. Many women face the challenge of not being perceived as confident enough, despite possessing the skills and knowledge. There are a few ways to convey confidence deliberately:

• Body Language is Everything: People absorb non-verbal cues faster than they process words. Stand tall, keep your shoulders back, and use open gestures. Avoid slouching or fidgeting, as these signal insecurity.
• Manage the Tone of Your Voice: The way you speak matters. Women often have higher-pitched voices, which can be perceived as less authoritative. Practice speaking at a lower register. A deeper, calm tone conveys control and poise, especially in heated discussions.
• Don’t Diminish Yourself: It’s easy to fall into the trap of downplaying your achievements or deflecting compliments. Resist the urge to apologise for your success. Instead of saying, “I didn’t expect to get this much done,” say, “Here’s what I’ve accomplished, and I’d love to continue to build on that.”

4. Leverage Gender as a Strength

In many instances, being the only woman in the room doesn’t just signify a challenge—it also brings a unique perspective to the table. Women often bring a collaborative, empathetic, and multitasking approach that is highly valuable in problem-solving and decision-making.

• Be the Connector: In environments that prioritize linear, hierarchical thinking, your ability to think holistically can be a game-changer. You may see connections between ideas or solutions that others might miss.
• Champion Collaboration: Male-dominated industries can sometimes be competitive, and collaboration may take a back seat. As a woman, use your inclination to collaborate as a way to build alliances, create synergies, and show the strength of collective work.
• Develop Emotional Intelligence: Emotional intelligence (EQ) is often a hallmark of strong female leadership. Learn to read the room, manage emotions (both your own and others’), and help foster positive group dynamics. This ability to guide interactions and keep conversations focused will strengthen your role within the group.

5. Turn Micro-aggressions Into Opportunities

It’s likely you will encounter micro-aggressions or subtle biases that question your ability or legitimacy. These instances can range from being mistaken for a secretary or assistant to receiving patronising comments about your expertise. The key to thriving in these situations lies in turning them into opportunities for clarity:

• Stay Calm and Correct: When you encounter patronising remarks or assumptions, calmly correct them. For instance, if someone asks if you need help with a simple task, politely clarify, “I’m well-equipped to handle this.
• Use Humour to Deflect: Sometimes, humour can be an effective tool for diffusing tension and asserting authority. A light-hearted but firm response can reframe the situation while keeping your dignity intact.
• Shift the Conversation: If you’re dismissed in favour of a male counterpart, wait for an appropriate moment to reintroduce your ideas. Often, simply re-stating your point in a different way or pointing to data can shift the attention back to you.

These small yet significant moments serve as chances to reinforce your credibility, subtly confronting biases while maintaining professionalism.

6. Forge Authentic Alliances

One of the most crucial elements to thriving as the only woman in the room is having an authentic support system. This can include women and men who recognize your value and provide mentorship, guidance, or simply a listening ear.

• Seek Out Mentorship: A mentor—particularly one who has navigated similar challenges—can offer invaluable guidance. Look for someone whose career you admire, and don’t hesitate to reach out for advice.
• Find Allies Within Your Industry: Allies can be instrumental in providing not only emotional support but also tangible opportunities for advancement. Build relationships with those who will advocate for you, especially when you’re not in the room.
• Create Safe Spaces: As you build your network, be intentional about creating spaces where other women can share their experiences, voice concerns, and provide mutual support. These communities are often a great source of insight and solidarity.

When you have the backing of allies, your ability to navigate complex situations is vastly improved.

Conclusion: Owning Your Journey

Being the only woman in the room will undoubtedly present challenges, but with the right mindset and strategies, these challenges can transform into opportunities for leadership, growth, and empowerment. By reframing your role, speaking with purpose, exuding confidence, and leveraging your unique perspective, you will not only thrive in male-dominated environments but also pave the way for other women to follow in your footsteps.

Your journey is not just about survival; it’s about owning your space and reshaping the room in ways that bring value to everyone. The more we embrace this role, the closer we get to creating environments where women don’t just occupy the room—they redefine it.

What strategies have you used or witnessed that help women confidently own their space in male-dominated environments?