A decade ago, while leading a team at Nordstrom, I asked one of my interns, Ariel, what she had learned during her time with us. Her answer stopped me in my tracks and left me doubled over in laughter:
“I learned how to say F you with only a smile.”
I had to admit, she was spot on. While her comment was tongue-in-cheek, it spoke to an essential truth about leadership, branding, and navigating high-stakes situations: the art of balancing boldness and grace.
As a woman consultant aiming to shatter glass ceilings and create uncommon wealth, this lesson is critical. Your brand message isn’t just about what you say—it’s about how you show up, especially in moments of friction or challenge. Let’s explore how mastering this balance can elevate your brand and attract Champagne Clientele who value exclusivity, sophistication, and authenticity.
The Power of Poised Boldness
Ariel’s observation wasn’t just about deflecting negativity; it was about leading with unshakable confidence. Whether you’re managing a team, negotiating with clients, or handling criticism, how you communicate shapes your reputation and defines your brand.
Champagne Clientele—the high-value clients who demand excellence and pay premium prices—aren’t just buying your services; they’re buying into your energy, your poise, and your ability to lead with grace under pressure.
When Confidence is Tested
Not long ago, I had my own “Ariel moment” when I received a less-than-friendly response to one of my outreach messages.
To set the scene: my assistant carefully researches potential contacts, ensuring alignment before sending a personalized message. This outreach typically offers a free, fun brand messaging quiz—a resource designed to help others refine their messaging using archetypes. It’s a soft, value-driven introduction, not a hard pitch.
Despite this thoughtful approach, one recipient replied:
“Hey Réland, I’m actually a messaging and communication expert, and I don’t appreciate the pitch slap. If this is how you communicate in the first message, I can tell our styles aren’t compatible. Have a great day.”
Ouch.
But instead of reacting defensively, I leaned into Ariel’s lesson.
Responding with Bold Grace
Here’s how I responded:
“It was not my intention to trigger you. However, asking if you’d like to take a quiz is not a pitch slap. If I was pitching, I would’ve told you about my $20k services. I didn’t do that.
One of my good friends, also a brand expert, recently posted about how even brand experts need the help of others in the field. It motivated me to continue offering help.
We’re all trying to grow our businesses here, and I’ve learned that successful people don’t put others down. I hope you find space for more kindness in the future. Have a great holiday season.”
This wasn’t just a reply—it was a reflection of my brand. I wanted the response to radiate the same poise, generosity, and clarity I bring to every client relationship.
3 Takeaways for Women Consultants Creating Extraordinary Brands
- Confidence + Kindness = Unstoppable Energy The most successful brands are those that embody boldness without arrogance. It’s about knowing your worth and asserting it with kindness, even when challenged. This energy draws Champagne Clientele to you because it signals that you can deliver excellence while treating them with respect and care.
- Your Brand Message is a Mirror Every interaction is an opportunity to reinforce your brand’s core values. My response wasn’t just about addressing criticism; it was a moment to showcase my commitment to generosity, professionalism, and connection. What does your message say about you when tested?
- Lead with Value, Always My outreach isn’t about selling—it’s about building relationships. Offering a free resource like the brand messaging quiz creates goodwill and establishes trust. Consider how you can lead with value in your own outreach, creating a brand that feels thoughtful, intentional, and aligned with your audience’s needs.
Saying “F You” with a Smile: A Framework for Success
Ariel’s cheeky takeaway wasn’t just a funny anecdote; it was a framework for handling challenges with boldness and grace.
When you master this balance, you elevate your brand beyond the ordinary. You create a message that resonates with high-value clients who are willing to invest in premium services. You show the world that you’re not just a consultant—you’re a leader with the confidence to shatter glass ceilings and the poise to build uncommon wealth.
Ready to Build Your Extraordinary Brand?
Every consultant has moments that test their confidence. The question is: how will you show up?
Take my free brand messaging quiz and discover the archetype that can help you craft a message that attracts Champagne Clientele and transforms your brand into something truly extraordinary.
