Question

Communication Styles: Biased word choices

I have been put off by biased word choices that others make in the workplace. Many times I am referred to as "the new girl" which really gives me bad vibes. I am much pass the age of a girl so with this type of biased word choices being used towards me it has caused me to ask for private meetings with the managers to discuss the stereotype behavior from other workers towards me. It affects my work attitudes when it comes to others in the workplace that does bias attacks. It has caused me to be secluded in the workplace.

What would you tell the employee who is uncomfortable with her peers calling her "the new girl"?

Did she handle the situation correctly?

Answer 1

A biased communication is an example of a speech that does not (intentionally or unintentionally) attempts to include all people. This can be based on gender identities, sexual orientations, religious affiliations, abilities, and ages. This is an important concern for effective and meaningful communication. Deviating from this will decrease efficiency of any organization.

Yes, she has made the right move by meeting the manager about the incident.

I feel it would best to to ask her to deal with the situation calmly. Given the situation, she can respond in the conversation by saying "you mean woman, of course" or "you mean the representing officer/the post she works on". I would also assure you that I will handle the situation in a manner that other employees, in a gentle note, do understand the mistake they are making, whether intentionally or unintentionally.

I, thereafter, would like to promptly correct any person referring her as a "girl" by saying:

“You must meant woman, of course. Anyway, yes, Annie is great.”,

or

"As Annie is an adult, let’s refer to her as a woman, Thank you.”

I am sure this will improve the situation quickly.