Sometimes speaking up can be a real challenge, especially if you’re a woman. Whether it’s a long-lost acquaintance (who you might rather stay lost) asking for your number or just having to ask an embarrassing question, weighing the balance between assertive and aggressive can be a bit of a struggle.
Studies have shown that when men speak up, this is seen as a positive trait; when women do it, they’re viewed as pushy. “SNL” took a lighthearted look at what a world where women aren’t afraid to “say what they wanna say” might look like.
The examples used include interacting with a long-lost acquaintance, speaking up when a friend tries to shortchange a group on a check, and asking someone for their name a second (or third) time. The examples — complete with slow-motion celebrations — are meant to be a bit tongue-in-cheek, but they represent a larger, more serious issue.
Is this actually a problem?
So how can we fight these expectations?
The first step to fighting gender bias is acknowledging it. Take a look at the examples shown in the video. What appears rude when a woman does it might be viewed as ambitious when done by a man. Gender bias is the difference between viewing someone as entitled versus ambitious, and it exists everywhere, from the boardroom to the break room. We should celebrate the women who aren’t afraid to shake things up and speak their minds.