To feel I’m treated differently…

[RobbynZ]

Because of my height. I’m a 40yr old woman at 5’. Ever since hitting adulthood and working in an office I feel as though people don’t take me seriously. I feel like I’m treated as a child but people who are taller are treated like their age. I sometimes even notice it with shop assistants. At bars ordering a drink is terrible.

I’m returning to the office in a new promotion after Covid next month and would like some tips on how to be confident and to get people to take me seriously. I know this is a “me” problem I need to work on mentally, but any advice would be appreciated 😊

I think you're overthinking it..but wear a small heel & hold your head up! You're as good as anyone else & your promotion proves it!

Your posture is key. Height is irrelevant, many, many very powerful people are very short. It's how you carry yourself and your self confidence that matter.

I'm 5ft and never had this issue. I'm sorry but I really don't think people treat short people differently.

I’m only a couple of inches taller than you and have never felt like this I’m afraid.

I am not doing this just to be contrary @RobbynZ i promise, but in my team the department head leading 25+ people is 5’ 1.

The head of section who reports into that department head is 5’ 0”.

So the two most powerful people in our firmament are “short” women.

granted , there are other attributes which (rightly or wrongly) might have helped them

• They are both sharp cookies able to quickly problem solve and articulate concepts to leadership
• Great people leaders liked and respected
• Good confidence
• Dress really well for their petite frames and for their industry setting

One of the most authoritative senior people in my work is also the shortest - we only met in person after lockdown and her height came as a huge shock to everyone in the team after 2 years of online meetings.

It’s all about how you carry yourself and your mannerisms. You need to act confident and if you’re not feeling that - fake it until you make it!

I know a teacher who is 5'. She is the one that no-one, not even the hardest kids, dare mess with. Even the staff approach with caution sometimes.

If it helps, my husband - obviously, a man! - is short. But this has never held him back, particularly in the workplace. He leads over 1000+ in a predominantly male environment. Height does not define you.