Do you ever find it tough to be taken seriously at work? That the men seem to have a repertoire between themselves that’s a little tougher and differs slightly from their interactions with women? Have you ever thought that it may be time to put your foot down and get the respect you deserve? Here are a few tips for settling into a male dominated workplace while still feeling like part of the team.
- Assert yourself. Set the precedence from the start that you’re part of the team and you are there to stay. Join in the game of showing off exactly why you’re qualified – pure facts are something your male counterparts will understand immediately.
- Don’t hold back. Have an idea or even just a question during a meeting or brain storming session – share it. Offering ideas and asking questions will display your confidence and show off your creativity.
- Speak thoughtfully and with confidence. Try to avoid using jargon like “um” and “like” by speaking slowly. (even practice if you have to!)Keep disagreements professional, but don’t back down. Remind yourself – you have every right to share your opinion, but keep it well calculated and back it up with facts.
What about you? Got any tricks for getting the respect you deserve in a male-dominated workforce?
