Decentering (dēˈsen(t)əriNG; noun) Displacement from a central position, especially of the individual human subject from a primary place or central role. (Oxford Language Dictionary)
Why Should We Decenter Men in the Workplace?
Mainly because men, by default, are given more importance when it comes to careers and are assumed to do a better job than women.
Additionally, women often do not take due credit for their work for fear of being called pushy or arrogant.
Women have entered the workforce much later than men, and by default, a man’s career is given way more importance than that of a woman.
When a male criminal is caught, he is often mentioned as the “promising young man,” but the woman victim who is killed or injured badly is treated as if she had nothing to look forward to in life.
Women often move cities and places as their husbands relocate for jobs. The “trad wife” trend is now all over social media.
In many ways, women are still coerced into caregiving roles at home. They are shamed for focusing on their lives and careers instead of their families.
Maybe men are scared of competition from women, which they don’t want to admit. They must have realized they are not as special as they believed while growing up.
Women are more efficient and honest workers than men. This petrifies them.
Let’s look into 8 ways to decenter men in the workplace.
1. Do not take up more work than your responsibility or make sure your work is recognized.
Do not take on more work than you are paid for. If you do, ask to be compensated for that job or make sure you get the credit for the job done. Do not let anybody else take credit for your work.
2. Do not help men do their job as a way to decenter men.
Do not mother men at their jobs. They may use weaponized incompetence at work to get things done by you. Do not do things for men that you would not do for a woman.
3. Question back when male bosses/co-workers try to put you down as a way to decenter men.
Call out sexism in the workplace then and there. Do not let it slide. Report it to your HR. If the company culture is sexist in itself, start looking for other jobs.
You can even think of starting something of your own. You do not have to work in environments where terrible men are enabled.
4. Ask for the raise and promotion you deserve.
If you are not offered what you deserve or your contributions are not recognized, ask for what you deserve. Make a list of your achievements and contributions to support your case.
5. Ask for help or mentoring if you need it.
If you need assistance or a team to accomplish a task, ask. Do not take all the burden yourself and exhaust yourself. Be clear in communicating why you need help and in what areas you need assistance.
6. Help and mentor women subordinates as a way to decenter men.
Support other women in your workplace. Mentor them in any way possible, providing confidence and encouragement.
7. Create a support group for women in the workplace.
Establish a support group where women can ask for help or opinions. This can unite women in the workplace. Be aware of “pick-me” behavior and address it if it becomes disruptive.
8. Be aware of your rights in the workplace.
Know your legal rights as a woman in the workplace. Familiarize yourself with company policies. In case of a bad experience, these laws and policies can be helpful.
Additional resources:
https://www.bill.com/blog/inclusive-workplace-for-women
https://charliestoolbox.medium.com/decentering-men-why-you-need-to-let-go-of-men-25f3a5dd2da2
https://www.charliestoolbox.com/post/how-to-decenter-men
https://sasforwomen.com/the-decisive-value-of-decentering-men-from-your-life/
