Act perplexed. Rather than get visibly upset or frustrated, simply offer them a baffled-meets-dismissive reaction. While some comments definitely deserve to be reported to HR or called out on the spot, sometimes the best thing you can do is give the culprit a playful yet condescending response. Roll your eyes, and say something like “That’s nice, bud. Why don’t you tone it down a bit, eh?”
Reverse the positions. If an individual does or says something sexist, ask them if they would have done or said the same thing if you were a — gasp — dude. For instance, “Would you have done that if I were a man?” “Do you make remarks about your male colleagues' clothes or hair?” Whether you ask these questions matter-of-factly or with some humor doesn’t matter, as you’ll still get your point across either way.
Fire back. Know how guys love to call you “emotional” or “hysterical?” Well, it’s time you volley back this sort of attack. If a dude tells you you’re getting “emotional” or “hysterical,” respond with “Looks like you are too!” Watch them unfold right before your very eyes.
Be the first to go there. Instead of waiting around till they drop the “emotional” bomb, do it first. “Keith, you’re getting really emotional right now. I think we should get back to the issue at hand.” Hah!
Point it out. Ever have someone call you “sweetie” or “hun?" While these are technically terms of endearment, these words take on a completely different meaning when coming out of the mouth of a co-worker or relative stranger. So next time your colleague calls you “honey," call them out on it. You are not friends, and you are not a couple — so it’s just not appropriate.
Make them explain. Play dumb and respond to the individual’s sexist remarks with feigned confusion. If they say something about how “all women are bad at math,” pretend you have no idea what they’re talking about and ask them to explain it a little more. Pro tip: Keep a blank, expectant look on your face. Works like a charm.
Ask why. Are you always stuck doing the domestic duties around your office or at home with your male roommates? If so, ask your manager or roomies “Why?” Rather than accuse them of sexism right off the bat, ask them for an explanation. Then take it from there.
Don’t laugh. Sexist jokes aren’t funny, they’re hostile. So next time an individual throws some offensive humor out there, just don’t laugh. Seriously. Sometimes simply not laughing — and making things hella awkward — is enough to make your position clear.
Ask them to repeat it. If people around you are making sexist comments, ask them to repeat themselves. Being asked to say the offensive remark again will make the person realize just how inappropriate — and disrespectful — it was in the first place. Make sure you raise your eyebrow as you do this to up the sass factor.
Present another view. If someone charges at you with a sexist remark, confront them not by saying “You’re wrong,” but by saying “That’s not always right.” Gently redirect them, and offer another way of viewing the situation. Inform them on why their statement is not altogether true or factual.
Say “no.” When someone you know makes a sexist or offensive comment, sometimes the best way to respond is to be short and direct. Try saying “That’s not OK” or “I don’t appreciate that” and then move on.
Have a private chat. If you feel that someone is being sexist, pull them aside to discuss the matter one-on-one. Some folks are more likely to be defensive and angry when scolded in front of a group, so stay calm and keep it private. Don’t force an argument — simply make your stance on the subject clear.
![]()
Tell a superior. If you’re experiencing sexism in the workplace, you may want to bring the matter to the attention of your supervisor or boss. If it’s your higher-up who’s being sexist, obviously don’t do this. However, if you are going to bring up the matter of a superior, try to be as direct and factual when explaining what’s going on. Also, make sure you have some solutions in mind.
Write it down. If you’re experiencing sexism on the regular, record it. Write it all — whether it’s overt or subtle — down. This way, you have evidence you can refer to later in the event that the situation escalates.
Don’t overthink it. Don’t wonder what they’ll think of you if you say something or speak up just because you’re a woman. Trust yourself and say what you believe. In other words, don’t let their criticisms or sexist remarks get to you and make you afraid to be you.
No comments:
Post a Comment