don't bother you. I had a problem with a make co-worker calling me "sweetie", so after the third time I said "You know, I'm sure this isn't your intention, but when you call me that it makes me uncomfortable, so I'd really rather you just use my name." No problems after that. Sure, snappy comebacks might seem fun, but by not addressing the blatant sexism in all of the situations presented, you're allowing it to continue. Lastango How about retitling this post "Three ways to NOT deal with off-putting remarks -- if you want to build a career". ====== Situation 1: You write, "Strangely, I was never asked to attend another pitch meeting again after that." I don't blame you for being upset, but did you put an extra flourish into showing your boss up? If so, that's part of how you screwed yourself. There are clues throughout this writeup that you enjoy showing up men when you get the chance -- starting with that crack on the first page about "women are taking over in all sorts of awesome ways". Let's notice that he received no support from the other men present, and that the others are aware of his limitations (the idea that they ought to have told the head of the company to "go to hell" or anything amounting to that is ridiculous). Even if it was necessary and "quickly jump in" to save the presentation, there are graceful ways to do this. Further, him having a