Susan Heaton-Wright

Credible communicators are more likely to be listened to and believed. It is an invaluable skill to have for any leader. Building trust through credibility leads to stronger, more productive relationships, whether with clients, colleagues, or stakeholders. It aides leading teams and organisations, having difficult conversations and leading organisations through crises. Research consistently shows that demonstrating credibility enhances leadership effectiveness, persuasive power, communication impact, relationship building, and customer loyalty. These benefits underline the importance of credibility in professional and personal success.But what is credibility? Why is it so important? In this impactful session, Susan shares the importance and value of credibility as well as developing practical skills and awareness to increase your credibility in all business conversations.

Are you frustrated when you see colleagues win that great opportunity or promotion. “How did they manage it: I work much harder!” Whilst many of us are told that if we work hard we will be successful, the reality is that other factors come into play to ensure a successful career. As a sixteen year old, Susan was massively underestimated by her teachers who refused to provide a UCAS form to apply for university “because you aren’t bright enough”. Despite this, the fact the teachers had underestimated each expected grade by 2 grades: Susan taking the action of stealing a UCAS form and gaining support from her formidable headmistress, she went to a top UK university. With hindsight she realises she didn’t present a version of herself that made the teachers confident of her abilities. She was quiet, modest albeit hard working. And if that happened to her, it could be happening to you: you could be missing out on opportunities and success.

Using her own research, discussions with top talent personnel and the latest thoughts on career acceleration, Susan shares secrets, tips and actions on how to be noticed, valued and identified to be promoted or given opportunities. No: she doesn’t talk about working harder; shouting to be noticed; but strategic, practical ways to be noticed. There will be many “A Ha” moments in this speech!

Excellent communication skills are rated as the most important soft skill for leaders. Being able to listen to your expert team; communicate your vision and strategy with clarity; have challenging conversations with stakeholders, clients and your team and have the ability to inspire, motivate and influence others. Research shows that there are significant costs of poor communication in the workplace – from misinformation; unclear communication, inefficiency and general errors. Using the SuperStar Communicator™ methodology, attendees create more efficient ways to have effective meetings; sharing opinions; have better conversations and be successful. Susan not only cites the latest research and findings in communication and good performance practice for increasing presence from her career on the stage.

Women don’t need fixing. However, many talented female and emerging leaders find their contributions are undervalued or ignored. Recent research from Neuroscientists in 2024 has identified that men and women frequently use communication differently. It is therefore crucial to develop self awareness and to recognise the purpose of the conversation to ensure women are credible and listened to whilst maintaining their authentic persona.

Using the latest research in communication as well as research and Susan’s expertise in spoken communication and performance, Susan shares key communication skills to ensure women are effective communicators; influence and make more impact in business conversations.