Thriving in a Male-Dominated Workplace: Expert Insights
Breaking Down Barriers
Jennifer Crittenden, author of “The Discreet Guide for Executive Women: How to Work Well With Men,” shares her expertise on navigating the challenges of working with men in a male-dominated environment.
Collaboration Over Competition
Crittenden emphasizes the importance of recognizing that men are part of the team, not the enemy. Rather than adopting an adversarial approach, women should focus on building strong working relationships with their male colleagues.
A Seasoned Professional’s Perspective
With nearly 25 years of experience in corporate finance, Crittenden has witnessed firsthand the obstacles women face in advancing their careers. She began writing her book when she noticed that her female colleagues were struggling to succeed, despite their intelligence, diligence, and education.
Making Yourself Heard
Crittenden offers practical advice on how women can effectively communicate in meetings and be heard among their male counterparts. Key takeaways include projecting one’s voice, getting straight to the point, and avoiding trailing off or redirecting one’s message.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Women often make the mistake of withdrawing from their male colleagues, failing to build informal relationships that can lead to valuable connections and opportunities. Crittenden stresses the importance of becoming part of the male network, even if it means stepping out of one’s comfort zone.
Dealing with Difficult Colleagues
Unfortunately, not all colleagues are pleasant to work with. Crittenden provides guidance on how to handle bullies, liars, and other challenging personalities. Her approach involves empathy, understanding, and finding common ground, even with those who may be difficult to work with.
Shattering the Glass Ceiling
Crittenden believes that women can break through the glass ceiling by seeking direct and clear feedback from their male managers. This requires creating a safe and receptive environment for constructive criticism, which can help women improve and succeed in their careers.
Words of Wisdom
When asked what she wishes she had known as a young professional woman, Crittenden emphasizes the importance of bravery, self-confidence, and trusting one’s instincts. Her advice is simple yet powerful: be brave, trust yourself, and you will thrive in your career.
Learn More
To discover more about Jennifer Crittenden and her work, visit her website at Discreetguide.com or follow her on Twitter. Her book, “The Discreet Guide for Executive Women: How to Work Well With Men,” offers valuable insights and practical advice for women seeking to succeed in a male-dominated workplace.
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