First VP role in tech with a company full of male directors

Anonymous

May 6,2023 at 1:36AM UTC

Welcome to Fairygodboss!

We’re the largest online career community helping women achieve their career goals. Gain access to articles, jobs, events, and a supportive network of women and allies. Membership is free, always.

First VP role in tech with a company full of male directors

Hello, I need advice. I accepted a VP of Sales role almost a year ago at a company that’s been around for 30 years but is still run as a startup. I’m one of the few women here, and I’m the only other woman at the VP/Director level. While I really like the CEO (my boss) the rest of the men at the director level have been at the company 30 years and are so negative and stodgy. I was hired to bring in new ideas, and I am doing that and have been told by my boss I’m doing great. Our sales are turning around, but the other men I work with argue with me, have even yelled at me before, long story short, the long timers are all seriously lacking professionalism. They have a way of doing things and don’t want to change. I commute and hour and a half each day for long hours in the office, only to leave liking my job itself but feeling so drained by my negative colleagues. I would love some advice how to address this- I have a great rapport with my boss, but his team has been with him since the beginning so it’s tricky. I’ve always been a remote employee so having such dramatic office personalities is hard. Maybe the job isn’t worth it, for the amount of hours and the office negativity.

Why women love us:

Daily articles on career topics
Jobs at companies dedicated to hiring more women
Advice and support from an authentic community
Events that help you level up in your career
Free membership, always

4 comments

Share your insight

Join an authentic community that helps women support each other at work. Share your professional experience or ask for advice — you can even post anonymously.

4 Comments

Join the conversation

AnonymousMay 6,2023 at 2:11PM UTC
I am certain that there are many companies that would value your input. If you haven’t already, buff up your CV/LinkedIn site and check out what new opportunities exist. You might find the search itself energizing.
As long as these colleagues remain at the company, I don’t anticipate any real change.
Jennifer sommervilleMay 6,2023 at 5:41PM UTC
It can be challenging to consistently face resistance and experience toxicity in the workplace. I’m sorry you’re experiencing that type of environment.
Change can be difficult. Especially given current market conditions. Are the individuals argumentative about similar topics each time or is it over a range of things?
I would recommend you outline what’s important to you. What is your ideal position, work environment, company values, growth opportunities, work/life balance. Are you able to get those things from the current position or elsewhere?
Additionally, I’ve found that new ideas can be particularly challenging. Consider hosting a workshop or exercise where others can contribute and feel like they are part of the change, work with individuals one-on-one to get buy in early before proposing the change, show them frequently how the change is demonstrating a positive impact.
I would also speak with the argumentative individuals one-on-one to find out why they are reacting that way. It’s okay to have differing opinions but you need to be treated with respect. Understanding more about the “why” behind each individual’s actions can help you navigate those situations.
I can relate to your struggle. Thank you for demonstrating leadership in Sales. You are paving the way and an inspiration to other women that aspire to hold leadership roles in male-dominated roles and industries.
AnonymousMay 7,2023 at 5:46PM UTC
Sit your boss down and share how you are feeling. Let them know that in no circumstance will you tolerate ever again someone yelling at you. Let them know that if they truly want to see change and as you are a force driving revenue into the business you need their unwavering support to be able to effect that change with little or no bruising to your career. If they cannot support you to that extent and you feel it's a lost cause then do look for something new. Being a revenue driving person in an organization means your input and success is directly affecting the companies bottom line which does wield you some level of power. Take that with you to a place where it is revered and not disrespected especially since women at your level are a rarity.
Diane J HuffJune 1,2023 at 12:25PM UTC
Girl, welcome to my world! I’ve been in your shoes a couple of times (currently in it) and guess what? You’re not the problem. They are…because they are scared and intimidated. You’re pushing new ideas and modernity and they are seeing a future where they are no longer necessary. My advice? As long as your boss has your back - move forward. Promote those ideas, add in that modernity and show them you’re not afraid of a group of old male ideas. As long as your progress works, screw ‘em! And don’t be timid or passive aggressive. If they challenge you, challenge them back. As long as they don’t call you names - raise your voice and be heard right back. Until your boss tells them to shut it down, fight back! Speak to him and let him know they make you uncomfortable but also let him know you don’t need him fighting your battles for you unless this is making the others in the workplace uncomfortable or it’s becoming toxic. Stand your ground and move forward. But if it gets to be too much - leave. Your personal well being is what is most important. I’m always spoiling for a battle so I stay and let them know I’m not afraid but you do YOU and good luck with it. I’m rooting for you!