The Male Perspective

As this topics' roots stem from the fact that women in high powered positions is a relatively new phenomena in the corporate world, we tend to look at it from the female perspective.  We take the males' perspective into consideration of course, but as they are the majority, we focus mainly on the female point of view.

According to an article in the Globe and Mail, by Leah Eichler,  men do want to share their point of views, but are worried that they may offend women in the process and be deemed sexist.

We need to understand each other to avoid this.

"American sociologist Michael Kimmel, a leading expert on men and masculinity and co-author of The Guy’s Guide to Feminism, believes men are eager to discuss such issues but are unsure how to take part in the dialogue... What men really want to know, he said, are the new rules of engagement in the workplace. They don’t want to offend women, perhaps with unconscious sexism, but they need direction on how to avoid doing so."

She also adds that male insecurity can be part of the problem as well, and refers to Ronald Burke, professor emeritus of organization studies at York University’s Schulich School of Business in Toronto.  The professor suggests that "... masculinity plays a role in keeping men from actively entering the discussion of gender issues at work. And a challenging economy, where some men may suffer bouts of insecurity if unable to fill the traditional role of provider, can exacerbate this issue."

An interesting point of view.  I would love to hear some male comments on this.

References

Eichler, L., (April, 2012). The Missing Voice in Workplace Gender Issues.  The Globe and Mail.  Retrieved
from:  http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/careers/career-advice/the-missing-voice-in-workplace-gender-issues/article4098759/