Let Women Thrive in Business Without Objectification & Belittlement
COUNSELLING
Written by Rachel Mehaffey
Would a Man have to deal with this?
Interrupting the Schedule: A Stand Against Unwanted Intrusions and Workplace Bias
Enough is enough. Today, I'm pausing my regular content to address a recurring and unacceptable issue—an issue that prompts the question: Would a man have to deal with this? Pause and consider that as you continue reading.
Today, I received my 15th unsolicited explicit image. Yes, you read that right—the 15th image sent to me without invitation or consent. What makes this incident stand out, even more, is that it occurred through my business account on Instagram. My account, which clearly outlines my professional role and is dedicated to helping others grow, was misused as a channel for an unsolicited, inappropriate message.
While the workplace has evolved with HR policies aimed at curbing such behavior, the digital realm, particularly social media, remains a Wild West of sorts. Early in my career, I faced similar challenges where men felt entitled to belittle my achievements simply because I am a woman. After winning a sales award that no one, man or woman, in my company had ever achieved, I was dismissively called a "not just a dumb blonde." My success was attributed to the incorrect assumption that all my clients were men, though they were predominantly women in the social work field. I was even told that my presence in senior client meetings was merely for the visual benefit of others, a demeaning and utterly false narrative.
This isn't just about Instagram. On LinkedIn, a platform designed strictly for professional networking, I've been asked out 21 times. Comments on my appearance and inquiries about my relationship status are common. There’s no grey area here; LinkedIn is for professional connections, yet it seems that any perceived opportunity is taken as an invitation for personal advances.
So, I ask again: Would men have to endure this?
There are countless wonderful men out there, many of whom are my clients, genuinely focused on personal growth and development. I cherish their dedication. However, there remains a stark divide that needs to be addressed.
Why is it that the concept of sending inappropriate images or making unsolicited advances seems acceptable to some? There are platforms designated for dating—Would I want you to send me your bits on there instead, no.
Look I am good at what I do and I love it. I have a lot of value to add and want to help others grow and thrive. It is why I became a coach. I want to work with anyone interested in genuine growth. But it is disheartening and frankly, exhausting, to to be made to feel like an object without genuine value to add.
From now on, my response is firm:
Ask me out on any non-dating platform, and I will sever that connection.
Send an unsolicited explicit image or make objectifying comments, and you will be blocked and reported.
It is not ok. If you aren't interested in what I have to say, cool, don't listen.
And for those still wondering—yes, I am single. And that is entirely beside the point.
Rach xx
Before you dive in ... Hey, I'm Rach!
I'm your in home life coach, a nerd when it comes to the body & mind. My vibe is teaching you how to thrive.
An Adelaide born life coach, podcaster, educator & dog obsessed animal lover. My purpose is giving you the tools to Level Up your life. I'm so happy you are here.
Free tools to start your Life Level Up
FREEBIES
Downloads
Discover the working of Ikigai & start down your path of discovering your purpose
Hack your Habits with my Top 5 complete with your how to plan so you can start today!
What's your Self Sabotage Style? Get my FREE workbook. Discover your sabotage type & start learning how to name & shame it.
Coach & Friend -
