It’s hard to be one of the guys when, well, you are not a guy. If you are a woman working in a male-dominated field or office, you likely want to be seen as an equal who is capable of doing her job. These four tips will help you succeed at your work and fit in with your co-workers.
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1. Display Confidence
Don’t be afraid to show your confidence. At Forbes, they advise businesspeople of both genders that those who display confidence get noticed more. You were hired because you are competent and capable, so don’t be a wallflower. Take the lead.
2. Take Criticism Well
Some people take criticism better than others, regardless of gender. If you are a woman working in a male-dominated profession or environment, learn to take criticism well. Consider the validity of the feedback and recognize the opportunity for you to improve your work. Getting wrapped up in emotion will make things worse, but simply applying the lessons you’ve learned from negative feedback will help you get ahead.
3. Network
Make friends with your male colleagues and grow your professional network. Find a mentor in your workplace, if possible. After you have been working in one place for awhile, you may even get to mentor a newcomer. This benefits you, as well, as you are perceived as the confident, capable woman who has wisdom to share that you are.
4. Choose Your Battles
Certainly, some battles need to be fought. If you are being treated in an unprofessional manner, or worse, harassed, you likely should stand up for yourself and fight to have the perpetrators held accountable.
However, not every situation is worth going to war over. Having a sense of humor or a thick skin does not make you a pushover. The ability to laugh things off and recognize when the intent was not to offend may help you get ahead. Remember, you choose what makes you upset and which battles are worth fighting. Choose wisely.
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