Business
The #MeToo and Time’s Up movements changed the dynamic at many offices in almost every industry. This is a good thing. A necessary thing. But, it’s also put men on the defensive; made them uncertain about how to speak or act towards their female colleagues. This is a fear that women know intimately (from years of dealing with it themselves) but this leveling off creates new challenges in communication. As a woman working in the Tech industry, Michelle Rice’s communication challenges require a lot of work. Michelle has been working in I.T. and software development for the past 15 years and she is often the only woman working in a non-support role. Her clients are 99% male. She also has her Masters in Psychology, which has helped her navigate her way in this male dominated industry. On this episode of the Brilliant You Podcast, we discussed the gender inequalities she sees and experiences including compensation, sexual harassment, and influence. She is confident that the tides are shifting, especially with younger people (thanks to programs like STEM) entering this traditionally male industry. But that is a years-long time horizon. Until then, she has had to work really hard to learn how to have difficult discussions. On this episode of the Brilliant You Podcast, she shares some of her strategies for setting a productive conversation foundation. We discuss the importance of having a container for the conversation, the role that neuroscience plays (and how you can get around that), and how to dust yourself off and learn from your communication falterings. Plus, Michelle shares her insights on when to shut down a conversation and move on. By the end of this podcast, you’ll have a much clearer sense of what women (still) face as business leaders and how to pave the way for your own success whether you’re in a male dominated industry like tech or not. If you’d like to connect with Michelle, her email is michelle407@gmail.com She mentioned two great resources on the show. Here are the links to learn more about: The Corporate Sisters Resources Women at Work (Podcast) from Harvard Business Review If listening to this has you excited but trepidation about tackling gender inequality at your work, grab some confidence first. My Confidence Kit can be downloaded at: Confidentwithnoapology.com Or email me to work with me or be on the show media@janetzaretsky.com And listen to more episodes at https://janetzaretsky.com/