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Greetings!
I know I shouldn't say this word, but I must...yes it's true, the HOLIDAYS are almost upon us! I am comforted with the knowledge that I am not the only one in shock at how fast this year has flown by.
The November issue of GenderSmart Tips discusses the challenges men are facing as a result of the women's movement. Remember there are always two sides. Enjoy!
Warm Regards,
Jane Sanders | |
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Men - Their Concerns About The Women's Movement |
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And The Challenges They Face
...by Jane Sanders
Many men are strong supporters of the women's movement, and embrace the business case for hiring and advancing more women. At the same time, some of these same men, and others as well, face challenges of their own now that women are making advances in the workplace.
My work has always recognized that resolving gender issues involves a two-way street - both men and women need to become aware of gender differences and learn how to work with each other more effectively. Teaching men about women's differences is only half the equation. In that context, I'd like to call attention to some of the challenges men face in the current business environment, subsequent to the progress in advancement for women. These challenges vary by generation but are valid nonetheless.
Confusion - There is confusion, and lots of it. Men, especially baby boomers and older, were raised differently than women, with regards to beliefs about superiority, competence, ambition, and toughness. Now women are acting tougher, and, men aren't supposed to think the way they were raised to think. Additionally, by their late teens and early twenties, most men finally figured out how to communicate with women in personal situations, at least enough to get by. Now the same style that works at home doesn't work in business. So what do they do? Also, men see some women not supporting other women. Are they supposed to model that behavior?
Caution - Because their usual style isn't working, and has even backfired on occasion (sexual harassment complaints and lawsuits, women's unfavorable reactions, wives' concerns with husbands' dining or traveling with female employees), some men find it easier and safer to avoid speaking or interacting with women. The impact of this approach will have long-term negative affects on teamwork and productivity.
Resentment - Rightly or wrongly, the existing business model was based on military hierarchy and authority, and it worked for decades. Men had their territory all figured out and under control. Then came the influx of women and minorities, which most men know intellectually is needed and deserved. But the adjustment to this new work force has been difficult for many men, as they must change how they talk and behave. It's hard, and I understand that.
In addition, companies are seeing the writing on the wall about the talent shortage and the high performance of women, and are offering support and programs for them that men don't feel part of. Businesses are also promoting women quickly and bringing women in from the outside. Some men (like women for so many years) are now seeing their advancement curtailed and feeling passed over.
The solution? Awareness, inclusion, and education...the solution for all change. Awareness of your company's mission, objectives, and rationale for the women's movement as well as the education of gender differences and how to work with them in business. Inclusion of men in women's programs and initiatives. This results in a cohesive team approach for both men and women - it's a two-way street!
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GenderSmart Tips |
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Style Differences: Making Decisions
Most of you are aware of the more common gender style differences. You know what the difference is, but perhaps not how it affects your assumptions about the other person. For example, you may know that generally speaking (meaning there are exceptions) women often make decisions using a consensus style. They ask others for their opinion to help them feel valued and part of the contributing team. Men see this as par for the course in personal situations, but in business, many assume from that style women are less decisive and managerial.
The truth is, more often than not women already know what they want to do, they are just making people feel valued, and they are staying open-minded until they hear all the views. After men become aware of this difference in a business setting, and see how they may make incorrect assumptions about women, the next time they start to make that judgment they can catch themselves and say "Wait a minute, that's just a style. It doesn't mean she's any less competent or intelligent than her male peers."
There are numerous style differences to become aware of and understand more thoroughly. And there are just as many about men as there are women. Remember, it's a two-way street and women need to learn about men's styles as well. |
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Quotes Of The Day |
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" As long as the question is framed this way - 'What can we do about them, the other, the opposite?' - it can never be answered, no matter which sex is being regarded as 'them.' The question, rather, should be this: 'What shall we do about us, so that our relationships, our work, our children, and our planet will flourish?"...Carol Tavris, The Mismeasure of Woman
"When God created the horse he said to the magnificent creature: I have made thee as no other. All the treasures of the earth lie between thy eyes. Thou shalt carry my friends upon thy back. Thy saddle shall be the seat of prayers to me. And thou fliest without wings and conquerest without any sword. Oh, horse."...The Qu'ran (Koran) sacred book of Islam
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you include "By Jane Sanders, GenderSmart® Solutions, 877-343-2150, http://www.janesanders.com."
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