© 2022 Fairygodboss. All rights reserved.
My boss keeps talking to me like a child. Is it because I'm young or female?
On numerous occasions my CEO/boss has acted in a very erratic behavior. He can be totally tense, edgy and about to snap and on the other spectrum he's like out of a children's tv show acting like Barney. I obviously don't want the crazy tense psycho but I'm also not cool with him baby talking me. I can't tell if it's because I'm female or if its because I'm young. He's actually only 6 years older than me so quite unsure and have no idea how to handle it.
Maybe it's time for me to go? Or is there a way to handle this without it becoming hostile and crazy hulk comes out.
Courtney Klein
Security Professional
688
07/18/19 at 5:14PM UTC
I've faced similar issues and have had the same question. I work in a field that is overwhelmingly male dominated and also tends to attract older folks (mostly retired police officers). So far, I've had very good luck with addressing the situation directly with the person who is doing this and, more often than not, they apologize and express that they weren't even aware they were doing that. A lot of times, it's an ingrained behavior but once you call attention to it and the individual is aware, they can work on it. I would say take this step first - if your CEO doesn't respond well, that's when you should look for a new position.
Alternatively, there's no harm in looking for somewhere to go right now, anyway. The best time to look for a job is when you're gainfully employed and happy. You'll feel less pressured to take whatever the heck comes your way, and you can be picky about accepting offers.
Anonymous
07/12/19 at 12:24AM UTC
my former employer was the same way its a superiority complex and you cant confront it because that would mean you are equals which in his mind is an absurd notion. you cannot communicate with these people they aren't actual human beings they have elevated themselves above that. i would recommend dipping out i wish i would have sooner
Anonymous
07/17/19 at 5:38PM UTC
Agreed. Get out of there. You deserve better.
ANDREA HERRERAHuman Resources Leader living in NYC
508
07/11/19 at 9:52PM UTC
Depending on factors like size of company, culture, etc. I'd suggest a conversation with him, and if that doesn't work then a visit to HR for some support. Its ok to say to him, "when you speak to me like that it makes me think you view me as a child and not like a professional who contributes to the team and does excellent work..." He may be unaware, or is unaware of the impact on you. Or it may be time to move on, because teaching him how to behave is ultimately not your job. (I'd be more concerned with the erratic nature of his behavior and the outbursts, but neither is appropriate in the work place).
© 2022 Fairygodboss. All rights reserved.