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Sexism in the workplace: 16 Tips to Stand Up Against Sexism at Work

So it’s quite old news: sexual harassment in the workplace is intolerable. Now, how about sexism in the workplace? Well, for real, sexism in the workplace is perhaps unethically and unfortunately kind of a “Gray zone.” Now, what’s the “Gray zone”? With the Gray zone, I mean to say that sexism in the workplace is something that’s less “objectionable” and more “uncool.”  So, to begin with, tell me what your workplace sexism definition is? What strikes your mind when you think of sexism at work? Let me tell you one thing, it can or cannot be far different from sexual harassment in the workplace. All the same, it can be sexual harassment or something as subtle as the gender pay gap.

What is Sexism in the workplace?

Sexism in the workplace is more complex, indefinable, and stubborn than you may even realize. However, to stand up for a problem, you must know what that issue is. And defining sexism in a workplace is relatively hard. Let me explain that to you.

“Hey, gorgeous”!

“Women are bad at computers.”

“You are too beautiful to care about your profession.”

“Hey, ‘darling,’ can you make me a cup of coffee?”

“Don’t get hyper, sweetie!’”

Have you ever heard these kinds of remarks at work? What? Do you feel insulted? Indeed, I hate it, too! All these comments are examples of sexism in the workplace. However, on their own, none of these remarks are life slayers. Then add each of them in all and think about it! By and large, sexism at work is so deep-rooted in the company culture that every so often, it passes by without being seen. Perhaps you don’t even notice that something like sexism in the work place is happening to you. Therefore, you close your eyes to this understated feeling of hostility or masquerade. I understand! You don’t want to come across as an unprincipled, unethical person. But girls, you need to make it damn clear that you’re not going to take any more of it!

How to stop sexism in the workplace?

Well, of course, we can’t solve the entire problem of sexism against women in a single article, but we can reduce the harm.

Imagine!

What if you could have better tackles and tools to deal with 50% of the girl problems associated with sexism against females and sexist in the workplace? Of course, that would help you live a better life. Doesn’t it? Therefore, I’ll break this article down for you by giving you some essential guidelines on how to combat sexism in the workplace. Here are some of the best ways to deal with sexism against women in your organization.

1. Set Appropriate Borders in Professional Relations

In every single professional association, it is better to set limits. When you allow people to get too open, they end up uttering things out that are not meant to be said. Therefore, it is important that you set proper limits in professional interactions and connections. Even when you work together with friends in your workplace, make sure you uphold a safe distance with them. It would be better not to communicate about your personal life with them. This distance allows your work fellows to behave well.

2. Don’t laugh at the “witticism.”

If people in your place of work are making sexist remarks or jokes, don’t laugh! Now and then, just not laughing will be sufficient to make your point clear. Your giggles may raise their spirits. It is better to offer them a clue that they are offensive. Make eye contact with the punster and stay expressionless. At times, silence also helps to shut mouths. That flash of awkwardness may perhaps make the person take a moment to think about it. If that doesn’t take place, a verbal battle should be your next decision.

3. Return the compliment and change hands

If somebody states or does anything that is sexist, ask that individual if they would have said or done that if you were a guy. You can request for answers in a non-menacing manner as well. Use some sensible remarks together with some sense of humour. Make sure that the person doesn’t miss your point that they are treating you differently.

4. Don’t Resolve for the Double Standards

In other words, if your sexist boss calls all your male colleagues by their surnames but calls you by your forename, then you must speak out. Ask why this discrimination. I know that you might feel creepy asking this. But every so often these double standards are so rooted that you won’t even comprehend that you are allowing them by staying silent.

5. Lead By Example

You must dredge up that whatever you do to others get back to you in some way or the other. If you desire to work in a company that does not cherish gender prejudice, you need to make certain that you do the same. Never support an individual who does something wide of the mark just because that person belongs to your sexual category. Stick to what is right and lay concrete on the way to morality. When folks around you notice your conducts, they will be heartened to follow the right path and get free of all gender preconceptions. You have to take the initiative to get the ball rolling for a workplace that’s free of sexism against women and sexists.

6. Speak up for any offensive behavior that’s sexist

Here’s an instance. Imagine you are the only female in a room full of males. And you notice that you are being treated differently. You see that you are always being interrupted, disregarded, ignored or undervalued. So, what would you do at the moment? Just make the situation of sexism in the work place recognized and speak up with confidence. Raising your voice will show others that their attitude is inept and that you will not take it any-more.

7. Enquire why you’re under attack without essentially bringing up sexual role.

Do people always hand over domestic responsibilities like taking notes or getting coffee to you? If yes, then take a moment and ask your manager “WHY?” Don’t just head onto an allegation of sexism against women in the workplace right away! As an alternative, you can request your manager for justification. Pointing out directly of what’s happening may be sufficient to make your boss realize that they are being unfair in allocating office responsibilities.

8. Sit down and chat with the confronter about it — IN PRIVATE.

Some individuals are more probable to be self-justifying and get annoyed if you spill the beans in public. If you feel that a coworker is sexist or rude, pull that person on the side to talk over the matter behind closed doors. Stay calm and keep it as simple as possible. Summon up that you don’t have to force a dispute — just present your point evidently. You never know that somebody you’re talking to may appreciate your reaction. Now and then, people round about few things without even giving a thought about it. In reality, they don’t want to be belligerent or sexist in any case. An approachable prompt that you don’t find it comfortable may be all that’s needed.

9. Just say “NO.”

If a co-worker makes a sexist comment, at times, the finest thing to do is to keep your reaction short and spot-on. Just round about, “that’s wrong” or “that’s not right” and then move on.

10. Keep a record.

If you think that you are experiencing sexism in the workplace, it’s a good idea to keep a log of it. It could be exclusively supportive if you’re subject to practices of sexism at work that go unsaid. It’ll help you to be capable of going to your superior or co-workers with noticeable statistics. So, try to maintain a record of all the incidents of sexism along with the discussions or conflicts you’ve had about these events with associates or managers. It is also a fabulous idea in the episode that the circumstances intensify and you do need to consult an HR or refer a lawyer.

11. Find Supporters and Friends

Speak to other women in your workplace about their experiences of sexism in the work place. Even if your experiences are poles apart, it assists you to talk over things with colleagues. It puts stuff in a standpoint and allows you to have somebody more objective to acknowledge your difficulties. It will demonstrate that you are not unaccompanied in your trouble. This way you’ll be able to develop power in numbers. A true friend will join you when you complain and gripe against the inequality and sexism.

12. Discuss with your superiors

If sexism in the workplace makes you feel apprehensive, it is better to turn to your superiors or any person over you. If the attitude of individuals around you gets out of hand, it is best to request your supervisors for ideas on how to deal with such circumstances. If they are interested in helping you, their assistance and support will relieve you tackle the condition successfully without displeasing the administration.

13. Tackle Sexist Remarks Diplomatically 

If someone expresses some spiteful comments within your team, it is sensible to call it out right away. However, such strategies are not a fabulous idea with your sexist boss or even for any person above you. You must discern how to deal with such circumstances diplomatically and sensitively so that it does not have contrary consequences on your career.

14. If it’s getting on your nerves, speak up!

Let’s get right to the point: sexism in the workplace is an offensive yet a broad term. If your workmates invite you for dinners or pass some sexist remarks, then that’s sexism at work. But if what you are facing is sexual harassment in the workplace then just head to your HR – right away.

15. Consult human resources

Yes, if things don’t work out, consult your HR. That’s what they’re there for, right? They’re there for guidance so look up to them. In fact, it won’t offend you if you bring issues of sexism at work up in conferences with your superior either. It will present a probable solution to you if you bring up such a sensitive issue to the authorities. If you feel like females aren’t getting an acceptable picture in your workplace, propose organizing women’s panel that meets once-a-month. Your organization can likewise implement a mentor-ship program for women to fight sexism in the workplace and set the office culture right.

16. If the management doesn’t back you, get out of such sexist company.

Yes, I mean it! Ask two important questions to yourself:

  • Is any profession worth your self-worth and personal safety?
  • Do you wish to work for a corporation that doesn’t even take harassment complaints with forethought?

If your organization can overlook such a serious issue, then you must comprehend that they do not value you as a worker. Here, I’d advise you to let your value speak for itself. Try to find opportunities where you can unveil your strong points. Summon up that your firearm is your aptitude and skills. Don’t be scared to take advantage of it, spectacle your power and let the cards fall in your favour.

Call out sexism in the workplace right off the bat.

If you want to combat sexism in the workplace, just don’t let it slide any longer. Speak it out! Snap right back at anyone who pulls some crap. Be an outstanding example of how females should be treated in the place of work. Set the principles and conventions for others as you would set them for yourself or your kids. Stick it out, carry on and take advantage of stereotypes. Have a change of heart and recall your strong suit. Trust me; you will persist and blossom!

“Raise your voice against evident and hidden sexism in the workplace, stand up for yourself and don’t take any shit!”

 

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    • Sunidhi Agarwal

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