As a young mom in the early stages of her career, Sarah often feels like she is not taken as seriously as her colleagues. She wants to know how to best handle these situations and be treated like an equal part of the team.

When you are not given proper respect by colleagues, what can you do? 

What are strategies for standing up for yourself without burning bridges?

How can you keep colleagues and/or leadership engaged during presentations?

Tessa explains the importance of having difficult conversations.  She shares the following tips for asserting yourself in a professional way.

First, make sure to address the issue. If you are not comfortable doing it in the moment, you can pull the person aside after the meeting. Avoid becoming a ghost by saying nothing.

Utilize the GAP Model for conflict resolution. Make sure to always assume good intent.

• What I expected…
• What I observed…
• Is that what you intended, or do you see it differently?
• What can I do to prevent this from happening in the future?

If someone is talking over you, try, “Stop. I have something to say.”

Keep presentations short and to the point. Avoid giving too much data.

Check for engagement during presentations by asking what information will be most useful and going straight there.

 You can learn more about the GAP Model for Conflict Resolution in chapter 7 of Tessa’s book, “Getting Comfortable with Conflict.”

You can find the story about Cubicle Guy in chapter 6, “Lies About the Corner Office.” 

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