8 tips on how to talk to Women

By Kimberly Coon

1. A woman needs to feel heard. She wants to talk about her stress - even if there is no immediate resolution. Talking and sharing help produce the natural, feel-good hormone Oxytocin. When it's released into her system, it reduces her stress considerably.

2. Use body language and affirmations throughout her conversation. When listening, nod your head when she makes a point or answer with an affirmation like: "Yes", "Right", "Okay" etc. The point is to let her know that she has your attention and you are following her conversation.

3. If you don't understand her point, politely ask her to elaborate on it. This simple tip will ensure that you really get what she is saying. It will also enforce the idea that what she says is important - which is always a good thing. Also, though there may be a learning curve at first, like with any new language, it only takes some time and practice before you become fluent.

4. Ask an earnest question when she finishes talking. A question like: "What do think we ought to do about this?" is the right combination of respect and support to encourage her to continue. Women mainly share their stress because it soothes her. She is trying to process information so she can make the best decision. It's an empowering and essential exercise to help her better navigate through life

5. When a woman is sharing her issues with a man, never interrupt her. The last thing she wants to hear is an ABC guide of how to fix it.  It can come across as condescending and rude. It's hurtful because not only is he minimizing her issues, but he is also telling her to stop talking about it. Remember that her brain chemistry makes her a social, talkative person. It's a biological imperative. She needs to talk to feel better and grow. With her, it's not just the answers that are important, but also the oxytocin-flooded journey she takes to find them.

6. Use feedback to reinforce her confidence. Self-promotion is an uncomfortable endeavor. Don't make the mistake of restricting your discourse to physical beauty. Women are much more complicated than a haircut and heels. Help her develop her inner beauty. Celebrate her unique personality and character traits. Reinforce specific ideas she's had or actions she's taken that have made you proud. Nurture her confidence and she she'll be a stronger, better person for it.

7. In a male-dominated field, think like a man. In fact, asking for a raise is one of the most stressful scenarios a woman can find herself in. She prefers to be recognized by others for her accomplishments and and desires to be promoted for them. Based on the 20% salary difference between men and women, it's a sure-fire way to get ignored. If you don't ask for it, you won't get it.

8. Encourage her to speak her mind. The antiquated idea of politely waiting for the men to make a decision needs to be erased. A woman is sometimes labeled "too pushy" if you speaks her mind. But if we've learned nothing else, we know that the best ideas evolve from a bunch of unique ideas. Next time a problem comes up, encourage her to jump in and share her thoughts and opinions. Brainstorming can be very intoxicating for men and women.

By Kimberly Coon
Social Media, Public Relations
Mars Venus Coaching

Kimberly has over 20 years of experience in Communications, Journalism and Marketing. She is a champion of empowering oneself and others. Her mantra is: learning keeps you hungry, alive and relevant.