Ever sat in a meeting, made a brilliant point, only for Chad from Accounting to repeat it, louder, and suddenly he’s a visionary? Or watched a male colleague get promoted with half your experience, half your workload, and (let’s be honest) probably half your competence? You’re not imagining things. The workplace is a battleground, and unfortunately, the game isn’t always fair.
But don’t worry, I’m not here to tell you to “lean in” harder while balancing your third cup of coffee and existential exhaustion. I’m here to break down exactly why men are moving up faster, and what you can do to level the playing field.
1. The Confidence Con Job
Men apply for jobs when they meet 60% of the qualifications. Women? We wait until we hit 100%. News flash: Confidence beats competence in most boardrooms. So, start applying, start speaking up, and remind yourself that half the men in power are just winging it.
2. The Boys’ Club is Real (And It Has Whiskey)
Deals aren’t just made in the boardroom; they’re made on the golf course, at happy hour, and in the mysterious vortex of casual bro-bonding. You don’t have to force yourself into cigar lounges, but find your version of networking, because access is everything.
3. Men Negotiate, You Settle
That starting salary? Negotiated. That raise? Asked for. Women are more likely to accept what’s given, while men push for more. The next time you get a job offer or a raise, channel your inner CEO and ask for what you deserve. Spoiler: They expect you to.
4. Perception > Reality
A man who brags about his achievements? A leader. A woman who does it? Bossy. But here’s the trick: Find strategic ways to highlight your wins without the backlash, use data, storytelling, and (ironically) let others brag for you.
5. Risk-Taking is a Shortcut
Men take more professional risks, and they get rewarded. Whether it’s volunteering for a big project or pitching a wild idea, take a chance. Worst-case scenario? You learn. Best case? You impress. Either way, you win.
6. The “Mom Penalty” vs. The “Dad Bonus”
Men with kids get promoted faster. Women with kids get questioned about their “commitment.” Since rewriting societal norms isn’t happening overnight, be vocal about your ambition and set boundaries that work for you, without guilt.
7. Image Matters (More Than We’d Like)
Unfair? Absolutely. Reality? Also yes. Studies show that men are judged on potential, women on performance. Play the game, invest in your personal brand, dress for the job you want, and own the room like it’s already yours.
8. They Have Mentors and Sponsors, You Need Them Too
Mentors give advice; sponsors open doors. You need both. Seek out people who will advocate for you behind closed doors because that’s where real promotions happen.
9. Women Support Everyone, Except Themselves
We’re so busy being team players that we forget to advocate for ourselves. It’s time to stop shrinking, stop apologizing, and start prioritizing you. Build a network of women who uplift and push each other forward.
Now What?
It’s easy to read this and feel infuriated. But here’s the deal: Knowledge is power. Now that you know the game, play it strategically.
Which one of these struck a nerve? What’s the biggest challenge you face at work? Drop a comment below, let’s rewrite the rules together.