I'm starting in a career field that is largely dominated by men. My question is, why do men have such a hard time respecting the intelligence of a woman who happens to be pretty? I'm at the top of my class and extremely over-qualified, but they can't seem to see past the blonde hair and boobs. Also, what do you suggest I do (short of shooting them) to make them not coddle me?
2006-12-25 12:10:06 · 13 answers · asked by justinz_1fan 2 in Society & Culture ➔ Other - Society & Culture
Oh yeah...what was that again? Sorry, I was distracted. Just kidding. :)
There is such a thing as hormones which are different. Traditions and society has created certain unspoken and unwritten rules on how men and women should behave. It also depends on how the person was brought up.
Unfortunately you are going face situations. That is reality. The best thing to do is to be professional. Depending on your workplace dress codes, dress appropriately. Don't go to work looking like you are going to a bar to pick someone up. Seen many of those. Don't try to be one of the boys. I have seen many women do that thinking the men will accept them but it always ends up having the opposite effect. In meetings, speak up. Make yourself heard. Don't hang around after work to chitchat or socialize. It is okay to talk general situations. The workplace is just that...the workplace. True, there are going to be times when you could end up facing an uncomfortable situation. Talk to the person in private without raising a fuss. If it happens again, talk with your boss. There are times when it is better off being considered a "b*t*h" or an "a**hole" than suffer in silence. Learn to pick your battles. Good luck with your job.
2006-12-25 12:43:03 · answer #1 · answered by worldneverchanges 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Most of the suggestions already given are good. However, that part about men just responding to their basic instinct doesn't hold water. If you examined other cultures you'd see that it's primarily in Western, "advanced" countries that so many men are physically-minded, looks-oriented. In many African countries, for example, overweight women are considered desireable; in Japan the nape of the neck is considered the most beautiful part of the body. Since you live--I presume--in America you will have to learn to put up with, or handle, your situation. It will take time and patience. I have my doubts about what some of the people said, concerning your workmates coming to appreciate your brains in time. Also, related to that: if you start dating any of your co-workers, your chances for being respected will go down the tubes! Date outside work, if you must.
2006-12-25 20:50:15 · answer #2 · answered by Charles d 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Congratulations on the new found career...As for the male element...Dress conservatively...Avoid any outfits that show off your boobs too much...My only other suggestion is to.....Be assertive in saying that you took the position as a career, not a way to experiment with the down side of sexual harrassment. Best wishes.
2006-12-25 20:34:25 · answer #3 · answered by 35 YEARS OF INTUITION 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sorry, but men are unable to ignore the base instinct part of their brain. If they have a physical attraction to you it will affect their behavior. Be cold and unfriendly which should help alleviate the adoration until they get used to you being around and aren't quite so "smitten".
2006-12-25 20:21:53 · answer #4 · answered by Sam C 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Dress down, lighten up on the make-up. Probably a professional make-over to give you a "professional" look would be worth the investment.
2006-12-25 20:19:21 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Nothing more Hot than a woman with looks and the brains to match it. Nothing more than children would have a problem with that. Your witt will overcome the basic feeling to knock the crap out of someone.
2006-12-25 20:13:07 · answer #6 · answered by myothernewname 6 · 1⤊ 1⤋
If you're concerned about people not taking you seriously for your appearance, then dye your hair another color and dress more conservatively. I wouldn't care about people's opinions, myself.
Just start talking... then people will know straight away you're intelligent and serious.
2006-12-25 20:16:43 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
That's easy. Just avoid wearing makeup and wear modest clothes that do not reveal your physical attributes. While you are at it, get some fake thick rimmed glasses. That'll fool em! ;-)
2006-12-25 20:16:55 · answer #8 · answered by kicking_back 5 · 2⤊ 1⤋
IF beauty really goes together with brains, then anybody will respect it!!!
2006-12-25 20:20:31 · answer #9 · answered by saehli 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
do u know that women are more intelligent than men
i used to say that since in my school they get the high marks
2006-12-25 20:14:35 · answer #10 · answered by micho 7 · 0⤊ 2⤋