Have you ever had someone at work subtly cut you down — interrupting you, taking credit for your ideas, or making those quiet comments that leave you second-guessing yourself? You’re not alone.

According to a 2023 Harvard Business Review study, nearly half of professionals say they’ve been undermined by a coworker. And women are more likely to experience it from other women — not because women are the problem, but because competition often increases in workplaces where opportunities and recognition feel limited.

In today’s episode, we’re going deeper into how to handle these moments with grace and authority. You’ll learn three power moves that protect your peace, preserve your reputation, and keep you in control — no matter who’s trying to shake your confidence.

This episode builds on Episode #61, “What to Do When Staff or Coworkers Undermine You - that episode explored why undermining happens and how to recognize it early. Today, we’ll go a step further with new strategies that show you exactly what to do when it happens!

3 Power Moves Every Career Woman Should Know

1. Name the Game, Don’t Play It
When someone tries to rattle you, don’t react — respond strategically. Stay calm, recognize what’s really happening, and redirect the conversation with confident phrases like:
“I’d like to finish my point before we move on,” or “That’s one perspective — here’s another.”

2. Reclaim the Narrative
Don’t let silence give others control of your story. Keep your work visible and your communication clear. Follow up in writing, document your wins, and make sure the right people know your value.

3. Guard Your Energy
You don’t have to fix toxic people — you just have to protect yourself. Limit interaction, focus on allies, and stay grounded in your peace.

If you’re navigating a situation like this and need help crafting exactly what to say, schedule a free consultation at drdawnshoptalk.com/book-online. Together, we’ll design scripts and strategies that help you handle tough moments with poise and power.

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Check out our Mentioned Videos:

The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fR_clXjZ-4&list=PLdguFjdYMwqWXnvIeSAIhDrtPdHdsLGde

Mindset & Confidence Secrets:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klxaMDeQCXU&list=PLdguFjdYMwqXrgiI1YaB87uHu1gm_mczc

Upskilling Secrets:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bm6ro9LlUMA&list=PLdguFjdYMwqX3gnuMSrLgaN7hXBSWhqmO

Building Your Brand Secrets:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PRK7Ep29SkQ&list=PLdguFjdYMwqVLPsFZjl-Do8eH7leltW8O

Ep61: What You Can Do When Co-Workers Undermine You:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ra3DcEIg6jY

Get your copy of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook!
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Career-Womans-Secret-Playbook

Contact Me:
https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com/book-online

Grab your Freebies:
https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com/career-secrets

https://www.youtube.com/@drdawnshoptalk/podcasts