Writing for the New York Times, journalist Hannah Seligson muses on the reasons her female classmates went from being academic achievers to workplace drones. Even in the 21st century, she sighs, women still get stuck with coffee and note-taking duty.
But this young journalist is no fool.
First, she says, it’s okay to say no. Men are very comfortable with a direct and clear “No.” Often they don’t take it personally.
Actually, I have to add, men don’t take it personally because they often see “No” as the first step in the negotiating process, which is why we have so many he-said-she said sexual assault cases. It works in the workplace, though, when you’re negotiating salary. “No” often means, “Come back later with a new proposal.”
Second, she’s glommed on to a truth that eludes professionals and executives of both sexes who are twice her age and infinitely more experienced:
“The other dose of shock therapy I’ve undergone is reprogramming my brain to think that, yes, girls do brag. I’ve indoctrinated myself with the idea that my job is a two-part process. One part is actually doing the work and the second part is talking about it, preferably in bottom-line terms.”
I added the bold type. Whether you work for yourself or someone else, I recommend pasting this paragraph somewhere you can see it everyday (but hidden from everyone else in your business life.
This article is titled GirlPower but it’s really PersonPower. You can read the full story here.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Cathy,
From my experience this reluctance of employees (or maybe it’s more aversion) to tactfully toot our own horns can indeed be a major career limiter.
Add in some over-eager folks who’ll merrily vacuum up unearned plaudits without conscience, and it’s real easy for your own accomplishments to remain effectively unknown and unsung.
But before folks sally forth into “power networking” their value-adds to the relevant business players, I do think Ms. Seligson’s advice to speak with bottom-line terms in mind is absolutely key.
And this requires practice and savvy – as the time and place to “legitimately impress” is not always predictable and is often fleeting. And you have to know your stuff.
Another observation I’ll make is that it’s often different in Asia.
While I recognize it’s easy to stereotype both American and Asian business cultures as individual vs group think – the reality is much more complex and fluid. Still, there are cultural nuances and yes, land mines, for how to position yourself depending on where you are and who you work with.
I’ve been lurking on your blog for a while Cathy, and admire your directness and wisdom – now is that an Oregon or New Mexican trait?
Or perhaps a fusion of who you are and what you’ve done? (My bet!)
regards
mark mcclure
tokyo
Thanks for the thoughtful comments – all the way from Japan!
As to your question: I’m originally from New York and have lived all over North America. Complete bio here and thanks for asking.
http://www.midlifecareerstrategy.com/about.html