Patronising Behaviour.

Bronnie

I was in an informal business-related meeting today, where a pompous old *art on the 'other side' spoke to me in a most patronising manner, including wagging his finger in my face! I reacted in a way that is typically me; which may or may not have been the best way! We have yet to see!

How do you react/respond to being patronised?

Hardup_Hester

Usually by being extremely rude.

Atasas

Depends on how much do you value your job. I for one usually let them be, but in few regrettable cases... just would't be good advice....

Bitsy_Beans

if it was work I'd be more restrained and probably then spend the whole day complaining about it LOL!
If it was in any other situation I'd probably get extremely sarcastic and speak my mind

Ivrytwr3

aw c'mon love, it's just men been men! Nothing offensive.

Now run along and put the kettle on.

margaretclare

It is extremely rude for anyone to wag their finger in your face.

I am not good at the quick verbal riposte, I wish I was, because I can usually think of something to say afterwards which fits the bill, but not at the time. I would be very angry, though, and I think the person concerned would be made to realise that I was angry and that he had not only committed a social gaffe, something more serious than that. I would get up and walk away.

margaretclare

Ivrytwr3 wrote: »

aw c'mon love, it's just men been men! Nothing offensive.

Now run along and put the kettle on.

This remark is beneath contempt.

Ivrytwr3

*slaps margaretclares a$$* Two sugars petal. There's a good girl.

thorsoak

Ivrytwr3 wrote: »

*slaps margaretclares a$$* Two sugars petal. There's a good girl.

And if margaretclare is anything like me, she would stalk off, make the tea ....and pour it in your lap!:D

"Oops ....sorreee ...... you've got me all of a tremble ..... oh - and I forgot your sugar ...here it is "(tosses two lumps into the hot mess on your crotch!!

Hermia

I think this is a difficult situation to deal with. If you are quick-witted a sarcastic, but not rude, remark can go down a treat. If not it's best just to remain dignified. Unfortunately I have found that a lot of men do still try to assert their authority at meetings by patronising women. I used to work with this guy who was essentially my rival as we were on the same grade and therefore going for the same promotions. He was forever referring to me as "girl" at meetings and implying that us "girls" were too emotional and influenced by hormones to be rational. I had to just try to outwit him. If I had got angry or snapped at him it would have just made me look emotional and hormonal in the eyes of the other men at the meeting. Grrrr!

Ms_Piggy_2

Honestly?

I'd have a rage/rant, but get over it. It takes all sorts in business and you either develop a thick skin or decide the world of commerce isn't for you.