Women Managers: How to Respond When a Male Colleague Shows a Lack of Respect

We may be told we're living in a more 'enlightened' age, but some men really do still have an issue with women in positions of authority. People show a lack of respect when they feel threatened by someone, and as a female manager, you'll know what I mean. Most women in a senior role will have encountered this at some point. Whether it's a male colleague deferring to another man or a casual, snide comment, these things add up. So how should you treat a man who is showing a lack of respect?

They may be an employee, on the same level as you or more senior, but it's never acceptable for a man to show disrespect just because you're a woman. The first thing you should do is stay level headed, because getting annoyed is only likely to make them feel they've won.

Try to create a positive atmosphere and environment. The lack of respect is unjustified, but by creating a positive space you take away any justification they might have created in their own mind. If the situation continues despite this, then it's time to draw the line.

You've been promoted to this position because you're strong and good at managing, and that also means managing attitudes. Take them to one side and tell them their behaviour is inappropriate, setting out clear examples of when they have shown a lack of respect. Tell them you believe it's probably because you're a woman, and that you have a serious issue with that attitude.

If their behaviour doesn't change and they're a more junior colleague, it's time to discipline the insubordination. You earn more respect by being firm and decisive, so take charge of the situation and give them a warning.

Men who respond to women in authority with a lack of respect don't have a place in the modern world of work. Call them out and show them why you're in this role.