So you are a male employee and have a female boss.  You think she is brilliant and you respect her.  However, you always wondered if you open doors for her or pull out her chair, will it offend her?  No, it shouldn’t. 

Your boss is still a lady and you should still display proper etiquette and manners when interacting with her and other female co-workers.  Sure, she has accomplished a lot and can handle herself, but she is a lady first.  Pulling out her chair, holding the door, and assisting her carry heavy items express your respect for her. 

If your boss does not want you to do this, she will tell you.  There are various reasons why she might opt for male co-workers to not pull out her chair and such.  When in doubt, do until told otherwise.  Good manners go a long way!

We all are faced with situations that force us to rise above the fray.  Whether it’s a demanding boss, loose lipped co-workers, or people in general.  I used to get frustrated during my early stages of Human Resources.  I would think of all kinds of things I would say or do the next time an employee said something to me that was just down right inappropriate.  I would get off the phone and talk through my teeth and just let them have it.

One day, my Director told me to always choose to play on the sidewalk and not the gutter.  Notice the word choose.  I had a choice to make.   I decided I was going to be professional no matter what anyone said or how they treated me.  I am not a door mat and inappropriate behavior is not tolerated, but is met with a quick dial tone.  But I digress.  From that point on, I began to build on my focus and not get caught up in distracting diversion prone conversations. 

I chose to be the one on the right side of right.  Sure, I occasionally have to switch gears and assert my authority; but when I do, it absolutely has to be done.  Learn when to turn it off and when to turn it on.  That’s what I try to do. Those that work with you every day can often give you that much needed sage advice that is necessary for your career growth.  Just be open to receive it. Until next time, stay Moxie!