The Male Mind at Work: A Woman's Guide to Working with Men

by Deborah J. Swiss

Book Overview

For every woman who works with men comes this immediately empowering guide to rising above gender politics and succeeding in the workplace. The thought-provoking book shatters myths about what really goes on in the male mind while confirming the realities about gender differences that have always existed.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0738204978
• ISBN13: 9780738204970
• Release Date: September 2001
• Publisher: Basic Books
• Length: 256 Pages
• Weight: 0.75 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 6.0" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

some interesting if not earth-shattering observations

Though I didn't feel that there was any shocking bit of new information, I did enjoy reading the candid comments of many CEO's regarding their perceptions of women. No surprise that many are intimidated by the very smart women that have risen to their level. I did feel that at times the differences between men and women were exaggerated somewhat, but the author does provide helpful pointers at the end of each chapter that are meant to help the reader put theory into practice. Most interesting is the idea that many top CEOs cite graciousness at the top quality they think makes them a strong leader -- I think men have learned something from women here as women are more likely than men to share the credit. Humility and graciousness go a long way, both in the business world and out. A good read with some useful information.

Gender-Specific and Yet....

Throughout eight chapters, Swiss suggests how women can "add swagger to their step, put on a game face, balance feminine and masculine traits, maneuver adversity and adversaries, cope with mixed signals and the great gender divide." She also offers reasons men why like working with women, secrets of strong leaders, and concludes with suggestions as to how to open "the gender lens. "Here is a woman's guide to working with men. (It could also serve as a man's guide to working with other men as well as with women.) Based on extensive interviews, Swiss offers some insightful comments and practical suggestions which, in this male's opinion, will help women to improve (or at least clarify) their relationships with men. Of course, not all men think and act alike; nor do all women. We all know abrasive and aggressive women as well as gentle and acquiescent men. Each possesses a unique combination of what are perceived to be masculine and feminine traits. Men and women often approach quite differently a broad range of career issues such as hiring and firing, conveying confidence, facing competition, participating on a team, building business alliances, saying "no" and setting limits, dealing with difficult people and difficult situations, managing and motivating others. Sound familiar? I agree with Swiss that there are certain "valuable truths about the male psyche" which, properly understood, can reduce (if not eliminate) problems many women have with that psyche in action. (Many males do not as yet understand, much less appreciate these "valuable truths.") This book will be valuable for anyone who seeks a better understanding of the male mentality, not only at work but everywhere else.

I really loved this book.

This book is incisive and helpful. As a woman in a male dominated field, I can attest that Swiss' advice is entirely on target. In addition to offering effective ways to succeed, it's also a good read. Very entertaining. If you are a women who wants to work more effectively with male colleagues--read this book.