This archive report was first published on 11 June 2020.
June 11, 2020
As a sales professional, you're likely no stranger to rejection. But when it comes from your own colleagues, it can be particularly challenging to navigate. A female sales team member recently reached out to us, feeling excluded from informal gatherings with her male colleagues.
She feels that these get-togethers give them an unfair advantage, and she's struggling to find a way to address the issue. So, how do you handle male colleagues who sideline you?
It's natural for people to associate with those who share similar interests, values, and backgrounds. This phenomenon is known as affinity bias. In this case, there may also be a hint of gender bias at play. To tackle this, it's essential to speak out against these prejudices before they damage your self-esteem.
Instead of confronting your colleagues directly, try to understand what other interests they share apart from their gender. This will help you determine whether their interests align with yours. Approach one of your colleagues with whom you have a good rapport and express your desire to join their informal gatherings. Pay close attention to their reaction and body language, as non-verbal cues can be more telling than words.
It's also crucial to build your skills and earn the respect of your colleagues. As a sales professional, rejection is an inevitable part of the job. However, by honing your skills and contributing valuable insights in the office, you may find that your colleagues begin to value your input and invite you to join their social gatherings.
Ultimately, if you're still met with resistance, don't be afraid to explore other options, such as joining a professional network of sales professionals. This can provide you with valuable insights from different industries and help you gain a competitive edge in your career.
— Jane Muiruri, Senior HR Manager, Nation Media Group
