Is it a Man’s World? How Young Women Show Up Powerfully in a Male Dominated Workplace
By Kristin Hodgkinson and Wendy R. Weidenbaum
Today more and more women are pursuing careers that were once viewed as exclusive for men. Women are now venturing into the fields of science, engineering, business, and information technology. So how can women get ahead in these mostly male professions? Follow these tips and start showing up more powerfully.
1. Be Professional
As a young woman in a predominately male environment, you’re going to stand out for that fact alone. So be sure to carry yourself in a professional manner so that your co-workers will see you as the serious career woman you are. And what does being professional look like? Dress appropriately and conservatively, be careful not to fall into office gossip, and be knowledgeable about all the latest news in your field. You want to show up as a competent professional, not a former sorority girl who’s landed her first job.
2. Don’t Be Afraid to Be Vocal
Women often give into the double standard that if men are vocal, they are going after what they want, and if women ask for what they deserve they are being too aggressive. And as a young woman with a majority of male superiors, the act of speaking out can be all the more intimidating. It’s time to throw that stereotype out the window. Most young women think if they do good work and keep their heads down, they will be rewarded. This is true, but the rewards will come at a much faster pace for those who share their accomplishments. The reality is most bosses won’t always be completely on top of who deserves a raise or who should be given the new project, so be sure to bring your hard work to their attention! An individual who has a strong network and is highly visible through volunteering to add value on projects and tasks forces will gain fast rewards. Try to meet with your boss at least once a month to discuss what you’d like to work on or any new ideas you have.
3. Bond with the Boys
The quickest way to be accepted by your colleagues is to socialize with them. If people are going out for drinks after work, be sure to tag along! This way they can get to know and appreciate you outside of a work environment. And if you find yourself not getting the invite, then make one of your own!
5. Find a Sponsor
Find an individual in the company who is your senior and by making them your mentor you will have someone with influence in your corner who will be able to promote you within the organization. In a male-dominated field, the referral of a person with influence may be the deciding factor of whether you make or break it within the company.