Bridging the Gap of Gender Differences

This post is labeled under Personal Development, Career Move


One can no longer discount the contributions of women in a workplace. They already occupy some powerful positions few years ago only men do. Some of their decisions become the lifeblood of the ever evolving economy.

As a teacher where I observe a considerable amount in increase of female students taking up technology courses, I feel obliged to give advice to my students any means possible to thrive in an Information Technology (IT) business where the arena is still dominated by men.

Men, on the other hand, must know how to penetrate women’s world, learn their language and mingle with ease especially if the environment is ruled by women.

Women as the weaker sex

Studies show that women need to take an extra effort to be taken seriously when talking to a group of people or making a presentation. Dr. Deborah Tannen, on her book You Just Don’t Understand: Women and Men in Conversation, talks about the unexplained perception about crises women face in a men’s world.

Dealing with different “specie”, a woman must be choosy on her words when she conducts business with a group of men. She must be direct and sure of herself to project authority on the message she wants to convey. She will not employ a “girls’ talk” approach to win over a men’s conversation.

Men should not treat women as their buddies

Though a woman sees a man as someone in authority, she still prefers a man who can simply empathize with her feelings and appreciate her thoughts. Domineering approach as proven effective with other men, is a no-no with women. Women despise a man who does not care hurting someone else’s feeling in public.

Women have definitely crafted the fine art of softening the impact no matter how difficult the situation is. They are good negotiators and pacifiers. Men should learn from women in acquiring these skills.

When saying “sorry” means a different thing

Often times, you hear women saying sorry for a situation gone wrong. As from a men’s perspective, this means an acceptance of fault or wrong doing. If you validate the intention of a woman saying sorry, you will find out that she is not really seeking an apology but simply empathizes with the messy situation you are in right now.

Women should know when is the proper time to say an apology especially if you are dealing with decision makers who take seriously every task on hand. You never like to be considered a wimp, do you?

Synergy in diversity

There is no real conflict between genders. One should only learn to appreciate what the others can do. We can live harmoniously with almost anyone as long as we learn to respect each other perspectives.

So, the next time you talk to someone, write a letter, or in any ways you communicate, spread those radars first. Be sure you are on the right level where you can easily be understood effectively.

Here’s to your thriving career!