In today’s evolving workplace, language plays a pivotal role in shaping perceptions and dynamics. Despite progress towards gender equality, certain phrases can subtly undermine women’s authority. This article highlights 16 common workplace phrases that, often unintentionally, diminish the professional standing of women, emphasizing the need for more conscious communication.

1. “Can You Take the Notes?”

Frequently asking women to take meeting notes reinforces traditional gender roles and sidelines them from active participation. It can inadvertently signal that their primary role is supportive, rather than as key contributors to the discussion. Changing this dynamic involves rotating this task among all team members, regardless of gender.

2. “Let’s Not Get Emotional”

This phrase implies that women are less capable of maintaining professionalism under pressure. It dismisses valid concerns or arguments as purely emotional reactions, thereby undermining a woman’s credibility and professional standing in a team setting.

3. “She’s Bossy”

Using ‘bossy’ to describe assertive women can discourage them from taking leadership roles. This term can diminish their confidence and assertiveness, essential traits for effective leadership. Encouraging women to express their ideas freely without such labels is crucial for a balanced workplace.

4. “Are You Sure You Can Handle This?”

Such a question implies doubt about a woman’s capabilities based on gender biases. It can create an environment where women constantly feel the need to prove themselves, potentially leading to stress and decreased job satisfaction.

5. “She’s Good, but Not Leader Material”

This statement often stems from unconscious biases associating leadership with traditionally masculine traits. It overlooks the diverse forms of effective leadership and can impede women’s career progression by not recognizing their potential.

6. “You Should Smile More”

Commenting on a woman’s appearance or demeanor in a professional setting detracts from her qualifications and achievements. It shifts the focus from her professional contributions to her physical appearance, which is irrelevant to her job performance.

7. “You’re Being Too Aggressive”

This phrase can discourage women from being assertive and expressing their opinions. It perpetuates the stereotype that assertiveness in women is undesirable, contrasting the positive reception often given to similar behavior in men.

8. “We Need a Male Perspective on This”

Suggesting that a male perspective is inherently more valuable can marginalize women’s contributions. It perpetuates the notion that men’s viewpoints are more rational or objective, which is a baseless and discriminatory assumption.

9. “It’s Probably a Family Issue”

Such assumptions about women’s priorities can be demeaning and dismissive. It overlooks their professional commitment and can create a bias that women are less dedicated to their careers than their male counterparts.

10. “Don’t Take This the Wrong Way…”

Often, this preface is used to soften criticism that is based on gender biases rather than professional performance. It can be patronizing and diminishes the validity of the feedback, making it seem more personal than professional.

11. “She’s Too Soft to Handle Tough Situations”

This stereotype undermines women’s resilience and capability to handle challenging scenarios. It can lead to women being overlooked for roles that require decisiveness and strength, limiting their career growth.

12. “Is There Someone Else Who Could Lead This Project?”

This question can undermine a woman’s authority and imply that she is not the best fit for leadership roles. It can erode confidence and perpetuate the notion that women are less capable leaders.

13. “This Might Be Too Technical for You”

This assumption underestimates a woman’s skills and reinforces gender stereotypes in technical fields. It can prevent women from pursuing or being considered for technical roles, further perpetuating gender gaps in these industries.

14. “You’re Overthinking This”

This phrase can trivialize a woman’s analytical approach, suggesting that her thoroughness is a drawback rather than an asset. It can discourage women from bringing detailed and well-thought-out perspectives to their work.

15. “That’s a Great Idea, Can Anybody Else Add to That?”

Redirecting a woman’s idea for further validation can subtly imply that her contribution is not enough on its own. It can undermine her confidence and discourage her from sharing future ideas.

16. “Let’s Not Be Hasty in Our Decision”

When directed towards a woman’s decision, it implies her judgment is impulsive. This undermines her authority and can deter her from making decisive contributions in the future.

Cultivating a Gender-Inclusive Workplace

Recognizing and avoiding these phrases is vital for creating a gender-inclusive and respectful professional environment. By being mindful of our language, we can foster a workplace culture that values and respects the contributions of women equally, empowering them to achieve their full potential.

Have you encountered or used any of these phrases? Share your experiences and join the conversation on promoting gender-inclusive communication in the workplace.