Talking With Women Professionals: Same Questions, Same Respect
Talk to a woman colleague or client about the work, her views and the event, exactly as you would with a senior man.
The method is common-sense practice; studies show women are interrupted more often, but no study tests these exact steps.
Why it works
Going quiet often comes from worrying how you seem. Treating her as a professional with views removes the guesswork and gives you plenty to ask.
How to do it
- Ask about her work and her view on the topic of the day.
- Let her finish; do not talk over her.
- Credit her ideas by name in groups.
- Skip comments on looks, marriage or family.
- Use the same exit and follow-up as with anyone.
What to say
What is your take on the new hiring rules?
You made a good point in the session about retention. Can you say more?
Riya's idea was to start with the Pune plant; I think she is right.
Avoid
Over-politeness that becomes silence, or jokes to fill the gap. Both make it awkward.
Example
Devendra used to freeze with women HR heads after two minutes. He now asks each one about her biggest hiring challenge this year and follows up twice. The talks now run 15 minutes or more.
Practise it
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