We were in a meeting at work, and they were asking for everyone’s opinion. When the manager went on talking, he joked about "women's tendency to complicate things" and laughed. I don’t know, I acted like it didn’t bother me at that moment, but it really ate me up inside. Would it have been appropriate to react, or did I do the right thing by staying quiet? What would you have done?
Something similar happened to me, honestly. During a meeting, the boss said that women are "too detail-oriented and slow things down." I didn't say anything at the time, but later I expressed my discomfort in a one-on-one. Since then, she's been more careful. I think if it's just a one-time thing, maybe you could consider talking to her privately.
If you didn't make any noise right there, you can still express your discomfort in writing later. For example, you could send an email to Human Resources; such situations need to be recorded. Still, I would recommend consulting a labor lawyer, as such statements can fall under workplace bullying.
Could the delay in work really be due to women's attention to detail? Have you thought about it at all? The manager's comment isn't nice, but maybe he was trying to make a general joke. Honestly, I didn't understand why it bothered you so much at that moment 🤦♀️
Such sexist remarks in the workplace can fall under mobbing or discrimination. However, if this becomes a continual pattern, it should be documented. Written complaints to human resources and witness statements are very important. You can seek support directly from an employment law specialist.
I should add that the manager actually says things like this from time to time, but usually in a joking manner. For example, the other day he said something like, 'If you were as brave as men...' about another topic. Maybe I'm being overly sensitive, but these things are really starting to weigh on my mind 😂
