Silence as Compliance

Silence is not always “golden.” Yes, I always suggest people shut up and listen more, but in the case of inappropriate comments, jokes or storytelling, you have a responsibility to speak up! It will be uncomfortable and many people just want to go along to get along. They want to act like nothing offensive was said. There are many ways you can contribute to creating a favorable workplace climate:
1. A popular simple word people use when someone says something inappropriate is “ouch!” Sometimes this one word will send the message and the behavior will stop.
2. If you have a repeat offender, it is important that you do not laugh at that off color joke showing approval. Instead, maintain a serious and concerned facial expression. Then say something like, “I think you should stop” or “Don’t go down that road.”
3. Approach the person privately and tell them you are concerned about their comments and the negative office climate it creates. Be specific. Use an example. Tell them you are offended and they need to stop.
4. If it still continues, tell your manager. If your manager is the offender, go to HR.

Code Switching: How to Talk so Men will Listen
Claire Brown Ph.D. and Audrey Nelson Ph.D.
Penguin Group-Alpha Books
ISBN 978-1-59257-926-6

Check out the new book website! - www.codeswitching.biz

Code Switching: How to Talk so Men will Listen is a hands-on tool for everyday use at the office. It is a practical resource with how-to steps to help businesswomen conquer the communication nuances between men and women in the workplace. This book explores the gender impact on business talk. It teaches using true stories and case studies, while providing valuable “code-switching” tips to help women gain and strengthen credibility and make a greater impact on the job
What people are saying about Code Switching: How to Talk so Men will Listen Toni Wilkeis - Australia Comments: I am a professional woman in the male dominated Mining Industry in Australia.  I have a few steps in the code switching direction (having survived in this industry for 10+yrs) but am thinking that your book may help me get past the line (or even the glass ceiling!!  :-). Best wishes Toni Mark Tannenbaum Comments: Great insight so far. Looking presently, unfortunately for most men not wanting to show the other side of whom they are, can put them into a 'pansy' role. Or saying that you speak and think like a woman. Swithching b/t cultural characteristics can be a daunting task, however bringing forth this information will help the path for both genders. Thanks

Hi Audrey,
Thanks again for your two amazing presentations at our Snow & Ice conference. Feedback has been very positive.

Thank you again!
Kind regards,
Holli Keyser
Administrative Support Supervisor
City of Fort Collins, Streets Department

Audrey did a fabulous job – everyone I spoke with said they could have listened to her all afternoon.

Rondi Mitchell
The Women's Fund of Greater Omaha
7602 Pacific Street
Suite 300
Omaha, NE  68114