6 Tips for Managing Misogyny in the Office

Sometimes it takes us years to realize that we too have been victims of misogyny because at some point in our lives or careers we learned to accept it as a norm. However, nowadays society is a lot more aware of this behavior and have learned to call it by what it is. Thankfully, there are ways to combat misogyny in the office while helping others understand what it is and how to manage it. Read these tips to help you navigate the minefield.

Don't tolerate sexist jokes or comments - call out the behavior and explain why it's inappropriate

Sexist jokes and comments are a form of demeaning behavior that should not be tolerated. It creates an environment where the opposite sex is seen in a negative, derogatory light, which can lead to discrimination and unhealthy social dynamics. For this reason, it is important to call out sexist jokes or comments when they are made. Doing so lets people know that such behavior will not be accepted. It is also helpful to explain why the joke or comment was inappropriate. Doing so models appropriate behavior for others and prevents similar incidents from happening in the future. If we take the time to address sexist jokes or comments as they occur, we can create an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding within any given social group. At its heart, making sure that everyone has access to an equal opportunity of respect is something all of us should strive for. That includes speaking up if we encounter jokes or comments that target any person based on their identity. It is unacceptable for individuals from any gender to be subjected to sexism expressed through humor - no one should have to deal with implied disrespect because someone found it funny at their expense.

Avoid speaking over women in meetings or at social events

In meetings, it can be frustrating to have your ideas or contributions ignored. Unfortunately, this is an issue that affects women disproportionately - often they are talked over or not given the proper opportunity to voice their opinions. To address this issue, it is important to be aware of how we interact with women in conversations. Avoid speaking over them in social or professional events and make sure that everyone has a chance to contribute and be heard. Women should be equally represented across all fields, but for that to happen their voices must be respected and listened to without bias and interruption. Doing so not only promotes gender equity but also fosters collaboration and teamwork. If you witness interruptions or disrespect happening and are able to, respectfully speak up and ask for the person who was speaking to be given the opportunity to share their thoughts and opinion.

Promote women to leadership positions and give them equal pay for equal work

When it comes to ensuring equal opportunities for women, promoting them to leadership positions and providing them with equal pay for equal work should be an integral part of the agenda. By providing this support, we can ensure that female employees receive the same recognition, respect and access to resources as their male counterparts. Apart from benefiting women in the workplace, having more women in leadership positions can also have a positive effect on organizations as a whole. Having diverse voices around the table contributes to better decision-making and improved performance. Furthermore, fostering opportunity policies such as flexible work hours or extended maternity (and paternity) leave is essential in creating a supportive environment that encourages inclusion while reducing gender inequality and discrimination. This creates a win-win situation not only for the organization itself but for all those who contribute to its success – namely its employees. Years of research has shown us that diversity and inclusion yields higher returns for all involved.

Stand up for victims of sexual harassment or assault

Sexual harassment and assault can be some of the most traumatic experiences someone can go through, so it's vitally important that victims are able to speak up and receive the support they need without feeling embarrassed or scared to lose their jobs. Victims should never be afraid to make their voices heard, and society must stand together to fight against sexual harassment and assault wherever it exists. This takes courage from all of us - we must have compassion for survivors, listen without judgement, report any incidents we hear about, and take action where necessary. Everyone has the right to feel safe in their workplace or community, so it's up to leadership to ensure that these rights are honored.

Leadership is gender-neutral and comes in all shapes, colors, and sizes

Women, and genders beyond male and female, excel as leaders simply by displaying the much sought-after qualities of good leadership: they possess strong communication skills, they're able to think strategically, solve problems quickly and effectively, and most importantly motivate their team with their enthusiasm and dedication to the company's mission. Having diversity on any team is essential for plenty of reasons — one of those being that everyone brings something valuable to the table which allows teams to have successful outcomes time and time again. What matters most is showing your value no matter who you are or how you identify — that's true leadership!

Educate yourself on the issue of misogyny and be an advocate for change

Misogyny is an insidious form of oppression and discrimination that plagues our society. It manifests in a variety of ways, from degrading language to devaluation of work and accomplishments. As a result, women (in particular) face a myriad of disadvantages in the workplace and institutions of higher education. To address this issue, we must all make an effort to educate ourselves on the topic of misogyny. Through research and active listening we can gain a better understanding of how misogyny works and what steps need to be taken to combat it. Additionally, we can use our voices as advocates for change; this could include calling out offensive jokes or getting involved with empowering organizations that help build up leadership around the world. In order for real progress towards gender equality to occur, everyone needs to play their part in challenging oppressive ideologies. Let's all work together to create a world where misogynistic attitudes are no longer acceptable so that everyone can reach their full potential unencumbered by bias and discrimination.

We can all do our part to end misogyny. It's not going to be easy, but it's important work. The first step is recognizing that we all have a role to play in ending this type of discrimination and harassment. What will you pledge to do?