Having male allies can help women cope in male-dominated workplaces

Networking after hours is often a requirement for certain professions and companies. Photo: Pixabay

Lynn H, 35, from Penang, is a diligent worker and enjoys her job as a property sales executive. But she is uncomfortable when asked to accompany her male colleagues for drinks and other activities after working hours “for networking purposes”.

“It’s expected as part of the job requirements for a salesperson to ‘network and entertain clients’, but it can be difficult as a woman because sometimes ‘more’ is expected from male clients and turning them down when they ask for a drink, date, or something else, might mean losing a sale,” shares Lynn.