Communicating clearly and persuasively sets you up to have the impact and influence you’re after. But what if you’re running on empty? Expressing your ideas and giving direction when you’re sleep-deprived, burned out, grieving, or in perimenopausal brain fog…can feel nearly impossible. So, what then? Leadership development coach Muriel Wilkins talks us through communication techniques that meet you where you’re at mentally and emotionally so that you can rise to the moment (even when you’re worried you can’t). Guest expert: Muriel Wilkins is the co-founder of the executive coaching and leadership development firm Paravis Partners. She hosts the HBR podcast Coaching Real Leaders. Resources: “How to Communicate a Tough Decision to Your Team,” by Joseph Grenny “When You Have to Carry Out a Decision You Disagree With,” by Art Markman “How to Look and Sound Confident During a Presentation,” by Carmine Gallo “How to Give and Receive Compliments at Work,” by Christopher Littlefield “How to Be a Compassionate Manager in a Heartless Organization,” by Liz Kislik Sign up for the Women at Work newsletter. Email us: womenatwork@hbr.org

She’s worked her way up from an administrative assistant to a leadership position. But she still struggles to come across as confident, especially in high-level management meetings. Host Muriel Wilkins coaches this leader on how to communicate more effectively. Further Reading: “To Strengthen Your Confidence, Look to Your Past” “Will You Ever Be Taken Seriously?” “Make Yourself Heard” “Own the Room: Discover Your Signature Voice to Master Your Leadership Presence”

Candor and compassion at work are more important (and more difficult to cultivate) than ever. On this special bonus episode, host Muriel Wilkins joins the Radical Candor podcast to help answer a listener question: should a manager try to change an employee’s interpersonal behavior? She and Radical Candor’s Amy Sandler and Kim Scott also discuss how to meet the demands of leading in a hybrid environment. You can find more of Radical Candor at radicalcandor.com or you can subscribe on your favorite podcast app.

Experienced leader coaches individuals through midlife career transitions, addressing concerns about aging in the workforce, finding the right challenges, and planning for the future. The podcast delves into the paradox of feeling content in the present role while being drawn towards new opportunities, exploring the importance of adapting for long-term success and balancing ambition with contentment at midlife.

Experienced leadership coach, Muriel Wilkins, guides a leader on strategic advancement, emphasizing the importance of clear objectives, self-awareness, and balancing personal perspectives. They explore finding a 'North Star' in leadership, aligning actions with outcomes, and seeking validation through leadership coaching sessions.

He’s a mission driven leader who has always found roles where he can help others. He was brought in at a high level at a new organization, but he’s feeling tension and conflict with the organization’s founder. Host Muriel Wilkins coaches him through how to manage himself in this negative work dynamic. Further reading: Founder’s Syndrome Can Take Down a Nonprofit. Here’s How To Avoid It Make Sure Your Work Is Aligned with Your Boss’s Expectations Managing Up

We’ve planned a half-day of learning, guidance, and inspiration—all virtual. First, leadership development coach Muriel Wilkins will talk us through how to communicate effectively when you’re running on empty. Amy Bernstein will then ask business leaders about how they pushed forward policies and programs that made their companies better for women. Next, Amy Gallo will interview several researchers about the practical takeaways from their latest findings. We’ll end with an advice hour, where both Amys will answer your questions. Do you need guidance on leading a team, dealing with conflict, negotiating, or something else? Email your question ahead of time to womenatwork@hbr.org, and they’ll try to help. Tickets are $60 for Harvard Business Review subscribers and $75 for everyone else. A ticket will also give you access to a replay of the event recording. Register here. Interested in buying a bunch of tickets for your team, department, or entire company? Email hbrlive@hbr.org to learn about group discounts. See you there!

She has risen very quickly in her career, often being the youngest in the room. She’s ambitious and wants to make it to the C-suite eventually, but she doesn’t know the right moves to make in the short term to fast-track her way to the top. Host Muriel Wilkins coaches her through how to align her career path with her goals. Further reading: How Ambitious Should You Be? (HBR.org) Do You Want the Corner Office Someday? (Dear HBR)

Muriel Wilkins, a seasoned executive coach, returns to tackle the intricate world of leadership challenges and career advancement. She dives into the tough conversations around butting heads with bosses and making bold moves like pursuing C-suite promotions. Muriel emphasizes the significance of coaching in navigating career crossroads, helping leaders discover unexpected insights about themselves, and outlining actionable steps for growth. Her insights promise to guide listeners through the complexities of real-life professional dilemmas.

Muriel Wilkins, a seasoned leadership coach, engages with Sarah, a professional grappling with burnout from past roles. They delve into the delicate art of setting boundaries, highlighting how personal limits can foster a healthier work-life balance. The conversation reveals the emotional toll of burnout and the necessity of reflecting on one’s definition of success. Listeners gain insights into practical strategies for preventing burnout, emphasizing self-awareness and effective communication as essential tools for navigating workplace dynamics.