I'm always kind of surprised whenever my girlfriends complain about their working environments and mention that the issues are probably because they work mainly with women. There's this understanding– or misconception–that female dominated workplaces are "bitchy" and "catty." As someone who has chosen to pursue a writing career in women's interest, it was kind of a given that I'd be among ladies for the rest, if not the majority, of my working life. When it comes to working with women, it's not all that bad. In fact, it's pretty amazing!
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There's something incredibly inspiring and motivating about working with a team of strong, intelligent women. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure there are some places where you can find a number of nasty, gossipy women behind what appears to be pretty, friendly faces. Believe me, I've had my good share of bad experience, too. But that doesn't mean that happens everywhere, and to be frank, the stereotype that most women secretly hate each other and just view one another as competitors to looks, money, and men is really getting kind of old. There are plenty of benefits you can reap from working in all-women's environment. Don't believe me? Check out a few below!
You'll get support: I can honestly admit that I've received the most career support at the places where I've worked mainly with women. I've had former supervisors and internship coordinators really take the time to take me out for coffee after work just to hear about my career goals. I've had some recommend me for jobs and others offer me gigs. It's a special kind of support I've never really received from a male employer. It's like we understand each other's struggles, and because of that don't limit one another. Every female-dominated job I've had (especially the one I have now) has pretty much taught me that women can really do anything. I've seen my fellow co-workers do it all from juggling a full-time job, a family full of kids, pursuing a second masters, writing a book, and still looking fabulous on top of all that! Working with women like this really effects the way I see the world.
You might develop great friendships: I have developed friendships with female colleagues that have continued long after moving to another job. We have been there for each other both for professional and personal support. It is such a myth that all women deep down just hate each other. So not true!
We relate to one another: Let's face it–there are some things in life that men just don't understand. The women at my job have been there to generously lend an ear, whether it's over issues with a boyfriend, husband, kids, or even when it's just that time of the month. One of my co-workers specifically keeps a stash of pain-relievers at her desk for whenever one of us is experiencing a bad headache or cramps. Plus, where else can you get to gush about how sexy William Levy is all day?
We know how to communicate: It's always been a lot easier for me to confront a female supervisor with concerns instead of a male supervisor. Men and women just don't express themselves the same. I can't tell you how many times I've had a conversation with a female boss and she instantly got what I was trying to say.
You get great fashion and beauty tips: The phrases, "Where did you get that?, "That's so cute" and "Does this look OK?" are popular conversation starters at my job. I've had some super stylish colleague help me with everything from finding my perfect foundation match, telling me where to snag the best fashion deals, and giving me advice on outfit options. Even just looking at the way some of them dresssed gave me some serious style pointers I still use today.
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