Nurturing a New Narrative: Micro-Feminisms as Seeds of Growth
Unconscious bias, particularly when it comes to gender, operates as an insidious force in the workplace. These deeply ingrained stereotypes and attitudes about women can subtly influence our perceptions and actions, often leading to unfair treatment and missed opportunities.
While organizational change is essential, we can't afford to wait. It's time to take matters into our own hands and actively challenge these biases in our everyday interactions.
Micro-Feminisms: Small Actions, Big Impact
One powerful way to counteract unconscious bias is through "micro-feminisms" – deliberate, intentional actions that challenge gender norms and promote equality. Far from being insignificant, these acts can disrupt the status quo, spark conversations, and even inspire others to question their own biases. They're like tiny seeds of change, planted with every interaction, that can blossom into a more inclusive and equitable workplace culture. And let's be honest, they're also really fun! I give myself a high-five every time I deliver a well-placed micro-feminism.
Here are some examples to inspire you:
Disrupting Gendered Language: Words Matter
Language can subtly reinforce gender bias. Let's consciously choose inclusive language that acknowledges and respects everyone. When someone doesn't mention the gender of a professional title (e.g., doctor, CEO, manager), assume it's a woman: "The CEO is giving a presentation today. I'm looking forward to hearing her insights."
When someone says, "I talked to my doctor today," respond with, "What did she say?"
Prioritising Women's Voices: Make Sure Everyone is Heard
In a world where, according to my recent survey on Unconscious Gender Bias, a staggering 81.7% of women report having their ideas dismissed or credited to a male colleague, it's time to actively prioritize and amplify women's voices.
Challenging Casual Sexism: It's NOT Just a Joke
Sexist jokes and comments are not harmless. They perpetuate harmful stereotypes and create a hostile environment. Don't be afraid to speak up and challenge these remarks. As eloquently put by Women's Agenda, "Every time someone has their sexist views reinforced, they become slightly more entitled to disrespect women."
When someone cracks a sexist joke: "I don't find that funny, it’s sexist. It perpetuates harmful stereotypes."
Never laugh along, and even ask, “Can you explain why that is funny?” More often than not, they will respond defensively with, "It was just a joke." You can respond with, “Then you will be able to explain why it's funny, then, won't you?”
When a colleague makes a dismissive comment about a woman's idea: "I think that's a valuable point. Let's explore it further."
And more directly, "That comment was sexist and inappropriate."
Confronting Microagressions: Don't Let It Slide
Microaggressions are those subtle, sometimes unintentional — and more often than not, intentional — slights that can chip away at a woman's confidence and sense of belonging. It's important to address these behaviours directly and create a workplace where they are no longer tolerated.
If someone comments on your appearance during a work meeting, you could say: "I’m sure that was meant to be a compliment, but let's focus on the task at hand."
If you're repeatedly interrupted, say: "Excuse me, I wasn't finished making my point."
My survey revealed that 42.3% of women have faced microaggressions related to their gender. Let's create a workplace where these subtle but harmful behaviours are no longer tolerated.
Supporting Women in Business: Lift as You Rise
By supporting female-owned businesses, we contribute to economic empowerment and challenge gender disparities in entrepreneurship.
When making a purchase, consider if there is a woman-owned alternative you could choose instead. Seek out and recommend services from female-owned businesses in your community. Leave positive reviews for female-owned businesses online.
Promoting Visibility: Shine a Light on Success
Women's accomplishments often go unnoticed or unacknowledged. Let's actively promote the visibility of women's achievements and contributions.
In a meeting: "I really liked Jessica's idea from earlier. Let's revisit that."
Celebrating Women's Voices in Literature and the Arts
It's time to diversify our cultural consumption and make space for the rich and varied stories told by women and proactively share it with others. Two years ago, I made a personal commitment to read novels exclusively by female authors, and it's been an incredibly enriching experience. By sharing this journey, I hope to encourage others to explore the diverse perspectives and talents of women writers.
Join a book club that focuses on female authors or actively seek out books written by women.
Make a conscious effort to watch movies and TV shows directed or created by women.
Celebrating Accomplishments: Own Your Wins
63.4% of women in my survey felt a lack of recognition and opportunities. Let's change that by celebrating our wins and those of our fellow women, and encouraging each other to own our accomplishments without apology.
Share your achievements on LinkedIn or other professional platforms.
Publicly congratulate your female colleagues on their successes or call them out.
Role model owning your wins! In coaching sessions with my female clients, I noticed years ago how many women don’t comfortably own their wins, so I start every coaching session by asking my client what 3 wins they are most proud of since we spoke last. When we start working together, they often struggle to come up with any, but as we continue our work, they lean more into their wins and can communicate them more effectively, as we progress. This is one of my micro-feminisms that benefits the world, one female leader at a time!
Championing Female Creatives: Support and Amplify
From artists to musicians to writers, let's actively support and celebrate the work of women in all creative fields.
Attend concerts, art shows, and other events featuring female artists.
Follow and share the work of female creators on social media.
Recommend books, movies, and music by women to your friends and family.
Using Titles Respectfully: Acknowledge Achievements
Ensure that you're using the correct titles when referring to other women. Many women experience the frustration of having their hard-earned titles, like "Dr." diminished or overlooked. Let's make a conscious effort to acknowledge and respect women's professional achievements.
The Ripple Effect: Leading by Example
These micro-feminisms may seem small, but their impact is far-reaching. Every time you challenge a stereotype, disrupt a gender norm, or amplify a woman's voice, you're contributing to a larger movement towards equality. You're planting seeds of change that can blossom into a more inclusive and equitable workplace for everyone.
As female leaders, we have a unique opportunity to not only practice micro-feminisms ourselves but also inspire others to do the same. Share your experiences, talk openly about the importance of challenging bias, and show others how these small actions can make a big difference.
The Path Forward
While systemic change is essential, we don't have to wait for the world to catch up. By incorporating these micro-feminist actions into our daily lives, we can start to shift the balance. It's about recognizing our power, using our voices, and supporting each other. Together, we can create a workplace where every woman feels valued, heard, and equipped to lead with confidence and make a meaningful impact.
Remember, the journey towards a more equitable workplace begins with understanding the subtle but pervasive nature of unconscious bias. If you'd like a refresher on the different types of bias and their impact, be sure to visit my article, The Gender Labyrinth – Unraveling Unconscious Bias in the workplace.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
JO WISE
Master Certified Coach with the ICF who is dedicated to elevating female leaders to new heights. A woman who lives life boldly, loves adventure, and finds joy in the simple things. She's a surfer, gardener, hiker, partner, and proud mum of one teen and 3 chickens.
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