Sandberg often refers to women’s problematic habit of remaining spectators in professional environments...
“Secretary Geithner’s team, all women, took their food last and sat in chairs off to the side of the room. I motioned for the women to come and sit at the table, waving them over so they would feel welcomed. They demurred and remained in their seats. The four women had every right to be at this meeting, but because of their seating choice, they seemed like spectators rather than participants.” (Chapter 2 “Sit at the Table,” page 28)
Have you ever noticed yourself “playing the spectator?” If so, do you think it was self-imposed or projected due to your gender and the expectation that you play more of a supportive role?
“Secretary Geithner’s team, all women, took their food last and sat in chairs off to the side of the room. I motioned for the women to come and sit at the table, waving them over so they would feel welcomed. They demurred and remained in their seats. The four women had every right to be at this meeting, but because of their seating choice, they seemed like spectators rather than participants.” (Chapter 2 “Sit at the Table,” page 28)
Have you ever noticed yourself “playing the spectator?” If so, do you think it was self-imposed or projected due to your gender and the expectation that you play more of a supportive role?