Men vs Women in the workplace
Summary
- Sometimes people may feel disrespected due to their gender, but it's important to assess the situation from another perspective to find solutions.
- When I managed a software company, a female team member felt she wasn't being listened to by a colleague named Jimmy. She believed it was because she was a woman.
- Instead of assuming disrespect based on gender, consider if there might be other reasons, such as established behaviors or communication patterns.
- I advised her to evaluate if she had unintentionally trained Jimmy by completing tasks herself when he didn't follow her initial instructions.
- By identifying and addressing her skill deficit, she learned to communicate more assertively, leading Jimmy to complete the tasks as requested.
Video
How To Take Action
A good way of dealing with perceived disrespect at work is by shifting the perspective and understanding the root cause. If you feel overlooked, instead of jumping to conclusions about why, take a moment to think about other possible reasons. Is it perhaps the way communication has been set up? Or maybe it’s a pattern that was unintentionally taught?
Try something simple: when you notice someone not responding to your requests, instead of finishing the task yourself, communicate clearly and assertively. This doesn't cost anything and can change how the other person perceives the situation. You can begin by explaining why the task is important and set expectations for completion, rather than doing it for them if they're slow to respond.
Next, if you suspect there's a skill gap in how you handle the situation, actively seek feedback on your communication style from trusted colleagues. This is a free way to gain insight and improve your ability to get things done through collaboration.
Finally, focus on clear and assertive communication consistently. Over time, you’ll prove your capabilities, addressing any doubts your colleagues might have. This helps build respect and ensures tasks are completed without taking on more work yourself. Remember, the key is understanding the situation and adapting how you handle it. This approach can foster a more positive and productive work environment where everyone can thrive.
