Throughout this project there has been a lot of conversation about different sexism topics regarding the workplace. Previously, we had posted about a story where a friend was mistreated by a hiring manager when applying to become a bartender. In the past it was talked about how in some cases the roles are reversed and males get mistreated, but in this case I want to discuss a situation that I personally had a connection to.

At my place of employment I work with a lot of females and one of which is an early 20’s female. I personally have seen her get hit on by male customers, to the extent that it made me uncomfortable as a male. I also happen to be her boss so when I see it or hear it, it is my responsibility to step in.

On one particular occasion, an older gentleman who is a regular customer of ours came in and called my coworker sweet lips. I could tell that it made not only the employee herself but the others uncomfortable as well. Everytime he comes in he will wait for her to help him, and makes comments about how he’s feeling better now that he sees her. Being one of only 2 males on the staff it is not something I like to see or hear. This gentleman has a sort of boys will be boys mentality, but I don’t agree with it. After I heard it for the first time, I took it amongst myself to have a conversation with my manager as well as the employee to let her know that we don’t believe that it’s appropriate.

There are often stories like this where women are undermined just for doing their job and it seems like a lot of males either contribute or don’t stand up for it. I believe that it should change.

#sexismatwork.

Recently I heard stories from friends regarding situations when they have experienced sexism at their place of employment. Majority of the time when we here about sexism at work it is regarding an incident where a female was treated poorly by a male customer or male colleague (which I do have a story about) but in some occasions it does happen to males as well.

For instance, a good friend told me a story about a time when he applied for a job as a bartender at the same bar his now wife (then girlfriend) worked at. When he applied he had the experience and the knowledge of being a bartender, and felt that he could do the job again. In fact, he was looking forward to the opportunity. However, the hiring manager looked him dead in the eye and said, well, you are qualified but I am looking to hire a woman because let’s be honest, they bring in more money and tips. Then the manager proceeded to tell him that they did have other openings though, as a bar back, bouncer, or line cook. While it wasn’t what he was looking for, he begrudgingly accepted it because he needed the job. Eventually, he was given an opportunity to work a few shifts as a bartender and proved that hiring manager wrong as he brought in all kinds of money and extra tips for everyone else because he was so good at talking with customers.

Has this ever happened to you, or someone you know? It has happened to me and it definitely needs to be talked about.

#sexismatwork

@AtSexism.

Sexism in the workplace is something that has been an ongoing issue for as long as I can remember. Even though it has gotten much better compared to where it was 40 years ago, we still are facing problems with it today. I find it something that few people talk about or feel comfortable going forward with sexism in the workplace that happens to them. In the podcast, I got the chance to interview Anne and learn a bit about her experiences with sexism in the workplace from 30 years ago to what it is like now today.
As a disclaimer, if you or someone you know is dealing with sexism in the workplace and don’t feel safe coming forward about it or don’t know how, this page is a safe space for you to communicate and talk about whatever you need to.
To learn more about us or want to follow along on our journey
Instagram- @Sexismintheworkplace
Twitter- @Atsexism

Interview with Anne