If you’re interested in reading about women in technology, or really, any STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) profession, you should read this comic: Ping Pong Theory on Sexism in the Tech World
It’s really quite true. I can’t say that I have ALWAYS experienced the same kind of behaviour at the office, but maybe it’s because I’m from Canada, or just lucky.
I will say that I HAVE experienced similar attitudes from men when I work with them, in particular men who feel threatened that I know more than they do and could potentially expose them for being the frauds that they are.
*shrug*
I’ve had more bad experiences with American men on the whole, during interviews and that sort of thing. When I bid on American contracts, I find that the interviewers for the technical piece tend to contradict me a lot even though I know I am right, but when I push back and tell them that they’re wrong and I’m right, they get really angry. …. and I think: Hell I don’t want to work there anyway, if they’re all going to be jackholes like that.
(Why, yes I just made up a new insult formed from 2 standard ones.)
Also, I have never worked for a startup. I’ve only worked for established companies, so that might make the difference.
What I have experienced from that comic are the following:
- Not being taken seriously because I’m a young woman
- Being attacked by other rather mean women I worked with
- Being told I was wrong about something when I knew I was right — this happens a lot
- Having my ideas stolen — this happens a lot
Anyway, it’s a great comic which is why I highlighted it in its own post.
(Thanks to Jean!)
