Soon the new product introduction planner position opened up. Within one year Leslie was propelled into a very different world. She no longer follows work orders to draw a product. Now she meets with engineers and other managers to hammer out every detail, exchanging ideas and solving problems. The industry is competitive, and to succeed Leslie had to earn credibility and prove herself to her colleagues, mostly men.
Gender bias exists in many forms, some easier to overcome than others.
I have to speak twice as loud and twice as often as a man. Leslie learned to hold her own in the working meetings that constitute a part of each day. She thrives on the challenge. Most people I deal with work with products already on the line. Learn to deal with bias and criticism, but don't lose your compassion or nurturing or the other good things that men may think are weaknesses.