Navigating the Corporate Workplace: Tales from Corporate Women Encountering Passive Aggression and Rudeness

Working in traditionally male-dominated industries can be a unique and challenging experience for many women. This is particularly true when one is navigating the corporate landscape as part of an old boys' club, where gender and power dynamics often intersect.

As a woman in industries such as the steel sector or financial services, one can face not just professional advancement, but also interpersonal challenges that can test one's patience and resilience. Drawing from shared experiences, this article delves into the various forms of passive aggressive and rude behaviors that corporate women encounter in the workplace. These stories serve as a reminder of the strengths women develop in such environments and the strategies they employ to overcome these obstacles.

Stepping into a Rough Terrain

My journey began in industries that were not traditionally feminine, such as the steel sector. This not only required me to negotiate tough deals with men, who were seasoned veterans in their respective fields, but also to implement unpopular changes within the organizations. The old boys' club often felt threatened by my presence, leading to a hostile environment.

For instance, I remember being told, 'You can watch your steps, you may fall off the stairs', or worse, phrases like, 'You're not gonna die in my bed, nor do you deserve to.' These confrontations forced me to develop a thicker skin and a sense of self-sufficiency. When faced with such hostility, the best course of action for me was often to ignore such negativity and carry on with my responsibilities.

Experiences in Financial Services

My tenure in senior management within the financial services sector in London, a city where gender dynamics are still marked by male dominance, saw me face an array of challenges. The industry leaders' attitudes were old-school and highly authoritarian, making it all the more difficult to navigate my way through.

Sexual advances, innuendos, and passive-aggressive behavior were common. In meetings, I would often be overlooked or ignored, or even mistaken for the secretary. However, as the meeting progressed, I would bring my expertise to the table, and the discomfort of the male attendees became evident.

Thankfully, I had a supportive male boss who often redirected questions to me, emphasizing my contributions. Despite this, some top industry leaders were clearly disinterested in my opinions and would challenge me aggressively. My response was always to prepare meticulously, armed with facts and figures, ensuring that my knowledge was as solid and extensive as possible.

Rudeness from Colleagues and Peers

Even within a predominantly male corporate environment, I did not escape negative behavior from other women. Colleagues and peers, often at lower positions, would sometimes resort to sexist remarks, such as questioning whether I had 'gotten to the top by sleeping my way'.

These comments, while upsetting, were a testament to the hostile environment I was navigating. By rising above such negativity, I could continue to contribute positively to the organization.

Strategies to Overcome Challenges

For women in corporate environments facing such challenges, the key to success lies in a combination of resilience, doubled preparation, and maintaining a professional demeanor. Here are some strategies that have proven effective:

Preparation: Be well-prepared with data and insights to back up your arguments. Grit: Develop a thick skin and the ability to brush off negativity. Support: Seek out a mentor or a sponsor who can advocate for you and provide guidance. Professional Demeanor: Maintain respect and professionalism, regardless of the circumstances.

Conclusion

The experiences shared in this article highlight the resilience and determination of women navigating corporate landscapes filled with passive-aggressive and rude behavior. By understanding the challenges and adopting effective strategies, women can not only survive but thrive in these environments.