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Greetings!
Welcome to the August edition of GenderSmart Tips! I know...it's shocking that
summer is almost over. I just can't believe it, especially now that I'm no
longer in California and will certainly notice the seasons changing!
This
month's issue discusses a feminine style of communication - decision making - how it's often misperceived by people with a masculine style, and a few
strategies for success.
Enjoy! Please pass along to any associates you
think might be interested.
Also be sure to check out the new audio file on my website, it's my 40" Main
Platform keynote for GAMA-LAMP this past March on "Get GenderSmart! Gender Communication for Recruiting & Retention." Click on link in lower left menu on my home page. My new 9" video demo will be posted soon as well!
Warm Regards,
Jane Sanders
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Discussing Decisions
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A Feminine Style Meant To Be Inclusive
...by Jane Sanders
Oh they are a collaborative bunch! Generally, women are inclusive and
consensus-oriented. They want people to feel involved and valued for their
contributions. They don't want to toss out arbitrary decisions and demands
for fear of being judged as bossy or harsh.
Consequently, women or
people with this feminine communication style, frequently ask others for their
input when making decisions. Often they already know what they need to
do, and have the decision made for the most part...they just want others to
feel included. And yes, women do remain open to other opinions and enhancements,
so they listen to the input they receive.
The masculine style is
different, in that decisions are often made independently. So, when men see
women asking others for input, they view the women as being indecisive,
insecure, or incompetent. Not so! This is just one of the many communication style differences between men and women.
Here are few strategies for
success when working with this different decision-making style:
- Be aware of your
perceptions. Be careful not to assume the person is indecisive or less
competent. Remember it's probably just
a style difference!
- Involve women in your decisions to help them know you
value their input. Adopt a more participative style too, to communicate
inclusiveness and respect for your team and associates.
- If you have this
inclusive style, be sure to make some decisions independently to help avoid
being judged as managerially insecure.
Keep in mind these differences are
not right or wrong, good or bad...just different!
Click here to read more Jane Sanders' Articles |
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GENDERSMART TIP
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Going Deeper Into Decision-Making Styles
A couple more tips to help with communication and working relationships:
I mentioned in the article above that men, or people with a masculine style,
make decisions independently. They have been wired for status and independence,
and prefer to process things internally. They don't ask others for opinions as
often as women do.
As a result, women perceive this style as
uncaring...that men don't care what women think or value their opinions. It
comes across to women as poor teamwork. "He doesn't ask me for my input because
he doesn't think I have anything to offer and doesn't care even if I
do!"
Again, this is merely a style difference, nothing personal.
Be careful not to jump to negative conclusions that men don't care...they're
just wired differently. Communicate to him that you would like to be able to
contribute more often and ask him to consult you more often or survey for
input.
And if you have this masculine style, try using a more
participative approach and ask others for their thoughts. Not only will you help
them feel valued and respected, you will likely receive some keen insight and
good ideas!
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Quotes Of The Month |
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"The only real mistake is the one from which we learn nothing."
John Powell,
American author
"Horse thou art truly a creature without equal, for thou
fliest without wings and conquerest without sword."
The Koran
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You are welcome to reprint any part of this newsletter as long as
you include "By Jane Sanders, GenderSmart® Solutions, 877-343-2150, http://www.janesanders.com."
Contact Information
Phone: 618-204-5540 Toll-Free: 877-343-2150
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