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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

Casual sexism from customers

34 replies

missymarrk · 15/07/2022 12:28

This is somethings that's really getting to me.

Should customers be called out for misogynistic language at our workplace? It's a sports venue. Mainly men. Constant comments from stupid men like - who you all tarted you for? What's with the make up? You're only wearing that because there is men about here! Who you got your eye on? Etc. like honestly, I wear make up every day, it's not even like thick lipstick and eyelash extensions, it's a bit of bronzer, mascara and some lipliner and balm. I'm sick of being made to feel embarrassed or questioned the motives of wearing make up or having my hair tidy to work.

What's the best way to respond to it?

OP posts:
ihavenocats · 15/07/2022 14:22

missymarrk · 15/07/2022 12:28

This is somethings that's really getting to me.

Should customers be called out for misogynistic language at our workplace? It's a sports venue. Mainly men. Constant comments from stupid men like - who you all tarted you for? What's with the make up? You're only wearing that because there is men about here! Who you got your eye on? Etc. like honestly, I wear make up every day, it's not even like thick lipstick and eyelash extensions, it's a bit of bronzer, mascara and some lipliner and balm. I'm sick of being made to feel embarrassed or questioned the motives of wearing make up or having my hair tidy to work.

What's the best way to respond to it?

What about starting to chat to them about makeup and since they're interested you could give them a few tips?

Who you tarted up for? Not you.
What's with the makeup? Hides my ugliness
Or just do a Mariah Carey? If someone makes a comment she doesn't like she just stares at them with a smile and sips tea until they feel awkward

Basically you can choose between putting them down, having banter, or ignoring them.

DrinkFeckArseBrick · 15/07/2022 14:32

I think when its customers its hard but in general I think it's ok to look a bit puzzled and ask questions. 'Why are you asking me that?'...'but why?' Or if you're feeling more brave 'do you ask everyone those questions or just women? Why?' 'Why do you think thats appropriate to comment on my appearance?' Etc.

Imogensmumma · 15/07/2022 14:37

girlmom21 · 15/07/2022 12:34

"Let's be honest, there's nobody here worth making an effort for."

Oh that’s gold!!! Op use this it’s perfect

Nancydrawn · 15/07/2022 14:52

You can always respond, flatly, "Sir, I am at work." There's nothing wrong with saying that, and you will catch them off-guard.

LittleSid · 16/07/2022 08:18

I love this! Say it with a smile and walk away.

LittleSid · 16/07/2022 08:19

Can't get sacked for this one.

LittleSid · 16/07/2022 08:32

Any business who values their workforce will step in either because

  1. they absolutely want to retain their staff;
  2. they wholeheartedly believe this misogynistic, "women are less/looking for a husband/should be in the kitchen" view is unacceptable;
  3. Know that if they don't, they may also be tarred with the same sexust brush.
The last one could cost them their own job, be publicly damaged and leave the company open to being sued. For 1 customer? They'll step in. On the other hand; victim-blaming much?!
MintJulia · 16/07/2022 08:36

For me, it depends on intent. If a 70yo customer refers to me as a 'lovely girl' I don't take offence. He is trying to be nice and no offence is intended.
But a 30yo man making a comment about my appearance gets a cold stare.

Sometimeswinning · 16/07/2022 08:58

Lalosalamanca · 15/07/2022 13:37

Lol. I'm female and I call everyone 'luv'. How what that make u feel if you served me and I said 'thanks luv!" ?

Are you just in your own little world? I'm not sure you understand the ops situation.

If you called me "luv" I'd roll my eyes but I think most people would consider you pretty harmless!

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