From Rookie to Reckoning: Overcoming Gender Bias
A female entrepreneur’s candid LinkedIn post about her journey through gender bias in business has gone viral, sparking widespread discussion. The post, which resonated with thousands, details her evolution from a rookie CEO to a confident leader.
Initially, the founder brought a male investor to pitches, having him pose as her boss to lend credibility. As her hard work paid off, she faced criticism about her likeability and opinions, prompting her to initially appear meek. She soon realized society still expects women to be “obliging, agreeable, and subordinate.”
The post recounts an incident where she silenced a condescending advisor by asking about his earnings. Now approaching 41, she’s gained wisdom and appreciation for her voice and worth. She addressed the various criticisms women face, from appearance to family status, often culminating in the “unlikeable” label.
Readers strongly relate to her experiences. One commenter drew parallels to “Lessons in Chemistry” by Bonnie Garmus, noting that challenges from the 1950s and ’60s persist today. Another shared a similar experience of being patronized by a less successful male counterpart.
The author celebrated her male allies who champion women in business, calling on both “fearless females and male allies” to address these issues. Her direct approach resonated with many, including male readers who admitted to previously dismissing such concerns.
One commenter shared her experience of being looked down upon during sales pitches, even by junior executives. Another recounted being questioned by a fresh graduate, highlighting the ongoing struggle for recognition.
The post has ignited important conversations about gender dynamics in the business world. It serves as a reminder that while progress has been made, there’s still work to be done to achieve workplace equality.
As the dialogue continues, many hope this frank discussion will lead to meaningful changes in how women are perceived and treated professionally. The viral post has become a rallying point for those seeking a more inclusive and equitable business landscape, where talent and skill outweigh gender stereotypes.
To read the article click here: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/julianachanphd_julianalinkedin-pleasevote-roevwade-activity-7222455287243231233-39uG?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop
Sushmita Chowdhary, Staff Reporter
