Become a person of value
If you're waiting for someone to recognize the value you bring, you may well be waiting forever. Recognize your own worth. If you want to work on a project, speak up. If you want to lead a team, say so. No one will appreciate your contributions until you appreciate them yourself. Work to become known as someone who can be counted on.
Let your voice be heard
Studies show women are much less likely than men to speak up in meetings--and when they do speak up, they apologize repeatedly and allow themselves to be interrupted. If you don't believe you have anything worth saying, how will others have confidence in you? Recognize the value of your opinion and believe that what you have to share is worth listening to.
Speak with confidence
If your communication style seems a bit weak, practice being assertive. That doesn't mean you have to be rude or hostile. Simply drop the apologies and qualifiers when you speak and others will see you as more authoritative and confident. Know what you are saying and say it with strength.
