Having grown up with three brothers, it’s painfully obvious to me that guys are just as emotional, irrational…you name it as girls, they just might express it differently. As women, double duty is required of us especially in the workplace when overcoming stereotypes. We have to know who we are, who we work with well and how to respond appropriately as needed to each individual we come into conflict with.
Ways to Deal with Stereotypes and the Conflicts that Occurs from Them:
Roll with the Punches: Know your environment and be aware and well studied in co-workers characteristic. Don’t find yourself shocked or caught off guard by people and presumptions.
Pick Your Battles: In the vain of rolling with the punches, knowing when to punch back if needed is key. Have a mental inventory on less to greatest importance. If you push back on all things, you will loose power and influence and become an annoyance. Choose wisely and make it count.
Self Edit: Think through each situation thoroughly and take emotion completely out of the picture before you send that email or make that call. Have a clear agenda focused on task completion rather than an agenda focused on airing frustrations.
Consider the Source: When in conflict, consider the person you are in conflict with and ask these questions: Do I care what they think? Are they worth my time and energy?
Big Picture Reminders: You are in the workplace to excel and be promoted. All energy should go towards this. Stay away from the drama.
Know when t0 Quit: If you find that you are not being treated right and your particular workplace or boss is causing personal turmoil, know when to walk away. There is a better workplace for you.