Greg, RE: "I could spend my time moaning about the plight of the white anglo saxon male worker over 50 in the high tech workplace. I could, but that would be a waste of my time. Instead, I choose to work harder. This way I at least stand a chance of improving things."
If you worked at my company and went to a tradeshow that you felt was offensive to men, and if our products targeted men, I'd be pretty upset if you didn't tell me the tradeshow environment wasn't effective for our target market. I'd also be disappointed to learn about it from the newspaper, rather than from you. And would be disappointed if you choose to hide the issue, rather than open up - as if you didn't trust me to help fix the problem. That would be my take, if you worked at my company.
RE: "You make women sound like victims."
In certain situations, the facts do.
And in other situations, others are.
But people aren't mind-readers and that's what this really boils down to, so it's up to a person to speak up for themselves or their demographic, whatever they may be, to help educate others on a different perspective. I think the definition of tolerance is to be open, not hide. Openness maximizes chances for success - you stand the least chance of improving things, if you do not educate and articulate.
RE: "white anglo saxon male worker over 50"
Red Herring had an article, something like, during this downturn, anyone with grey or white hair (i.e. experience) is needed! During this downturn, most people I know looked for experience - no one could risk their business by hiring someone green - we hired several people in their 50s. During the first week, one person suggested I change my style a bit, from collaborative to more directive. If he hadn't opened up, I wouldn't have known.
Regards,
Amy J |
