Under The Microscope: Women in The Workplace

The Gauntlet of Professionalism 

Professionalism is crucial when beginning the transition from college to the workforce, but the way it’s expressed is oftentimes confusing, anxiety-inducing, and full of difficult decisions. As I’ve moved through my undergraduate degree, I spent more and more time thinking about how I present myself professionally, not just from the clothes I wear, but my verbal and nonverbal communication choices as well. Specifically as a young Hispanic woman, my decisions often face more scrutiny than my male counterparts, and as I begin the transition from college to the workforce, this scrutiny becomes magnified. 

Women are significantly more likely to face microaggressions in the workplace, and this only worsens when women also identify with another traditionally marginalized identity, according to a 2023 study. Like many other women, I struggle with how I present myself in the workplace, from worrying if my clothes are appropriate to overanalyzing my language choices in emails or messages to other colleagues. 

Image sourced from Brink News.

When left unchecked, self-doubt and internal criticism become a constant and intrusive presence, plaguing every decision I make. Rather than channeling my focus into producing great work, I’m spending time stressing over the little things, such as my punctuation choices. This cycle of doubt not only limits my productivity but also undermines my confidence. 

Build Eachother Up 

There is a distinct lack of agency when constantly worrying about the emotions of others in the workplace. However, it’s important to understand the line between normal workplace accommodations, and decisions made simply because of being a woman or member of another traditionally marginalized group. I’ve frequently found myself adding another exclamation point, polite language, and being over-accommodating, all to ensure the receiver of my message does not find me angry or passive-aggressive. Recognizing this line is essential, as it helps ensure that accommodations are based on genuine needs or professional considerations.

Image sourced from Occupational Health & Safety.

An article by Harvard Business Review suggests women over-apologize, especially in the workplace, due to the need to be liked, the desire to achieve perfection, and an increased sense of empathy.  Women are looking to change that through acts of microfeminism. A Mmicrofeminism is a small way to combat sexism in the workplace. From asking men to take notes, to assuming the CEO or manager is a woman, to apologizing less, these actions all help to break down common workplace stigmas. These small acts pave the way for creating a more balanced and productive work environment.

Advocating for other women is crucial in combating common workplace microaggressions towards women. Chime in with support when a woman proposes a good idea and advocate for your co-workers in meetings when someone interrupts or tries to speak over them. Even the smallest of actions can uplift those who need it and contribute to creating a more productive environment.

No, You’re Not Being Rude

Recently, I’ve tried my best to put down the exclamation point. Instead of a ‘Thank you! I’ll have it over by the end of the day!’ I’ll send a ‘Thank you, I’ll have it over by the end of the day.’ Strangely, I’ve found it empowering. I feel more confident in myself, and how others see me. Instead of worrying about how my email will be taken, I’m focusing on my work and responsibilities.

Exhibiting confidence in a professional setting as a young woman can be difficult. It feels like wearing a shirt that’s a size too small: uncomfortable, and left wondering if everyone can tell. Being assertive has not only been a trend in my personal life but also a topic of conversation with other women in my life.. No longer are we sending each other messages asking if we sounded mean. We’re being assertive, and saving everyone some time in the process.

All of these actions are far from rude, but be prepared to ruffle some feathers. Being an assertive woman can lead to unwarranted pushback or discomfort from others, but the long-term pay-off is more than worth it; less stress, less conflict, and increased self-confidence. 

About Ana

Ana Zapata is a senior studying Ad/PR. She is the current sitting Chief Operations Officer of GrandPR. Ana’s passions within the world of PR are all things writing and research! Ana is hoping to work in-house for a tech or STEM-related company upon graduation.