| Sales at my company is female dominated, I'm in building next door so I run into them all the time, I just treat them as any other member of staff, politely but otherwise as an amorphous blob. I don't socialise with work mates outside of work events either, lines get crossed when you do in a alcohol orientated culture like mine. It's worked fine for me for 19 years employed. Had one female former colleague assume I was gay because I never hit on her (and she was attractive). Nope, just not interested in bollocking up a good work environment, it was interesting to watch the dynamic though. My simple rules for work. Treat everyone equally, small stuff matters, I went out for coffee and went and asked the cleaner if he wanted one, he looked surprised. Don't gossip ever, just don't. Leave the conversation if someone else starts. Be on time, meet deadlines, let boss know as soon as you know you won't. Be professional, you might know a customer for years but they are still Mr Smith until they say 'call me Bob'. When a boss makes what you think is a poor decision (business reasons, moral reasons etc) get it in writing. Always send a recap email after meetings, misunderstandings cost less the earlier you catch them (much like bugs). |
Its not foolproof by any stretch, but it's excellent risk management on multiple fronts.