“So often, women in business think they’re causing a situation by speaking up — they’re not,” Portas writes.

“It’s about being open and honest, which is vital to how we work. In my agency, Portas, we call it radical candour: you tell the truth, but with kindness and a view to everybody coming out with a good result.

“Power does not have to be hierarchical. Power is with everybody, and you can only make change happen when you realise that.”

“By opening up the discussion yourself, you can gain some power,” she adds. “Being honest and open is the most important way to clear a channel, but you should do it professionally, without antagonism.”

This is such a simple approach, but it’s also genius in a low-key kind of way. You speak your mind, and therefore avoid stewing away on issues that are nagging at you.

But at the same time, you take the heat out of the exchange by actively practising kindness.

It’s all part of Portas’ drive to call time on alpha work culture, as captured in her new book, Work Like a Woman.

You can find out more about the manifesto as Portas appears at Stylist Live next weekend, leading a masterclass in empathy, instinct and trust.

Buy your tickets right here.

Images: Mary Portas, Getty

Why everyone should try "radical candour" to fix workplace politics