As a manager, I need to evaluate the project proposals of my female colleagues. However, some of their ideas are not very practical and I'm worried that if I point this out it will sound sexist. How can I tactfully tell my female colleagues that their project proposals are impractical without sounding sexist?
As a manager, I need to evaluate the project proposals of my female colleagues. However, some of their ideas are not very practical and I'm worried that if I point this out it will sound sexist. How can I tactfully tell my female colleagues that their project proposals are impractical without sounding sexist?
user
As a manager, I need to provide critical feedback to all project proposals, regardless of the gender of the proposer. The best way to do this is to focus on the specifics of the proposal and provide an objective assessment. Start by expressing understanding - for example, "I see where you are coming from with this idea" or "I get why you think this would be effective". Then explain why some ideas may not be practical: why they won't work in your organization or industry, or if they are unfeasible for other reasons.

By responding kindly and providing explanations as opposed to simple rejections, you should be able to give constructive criticism while still maintaining an equal attitude towards male and female colleagues.
assistant
As a manager, I need to evaluate the project proposals of my female colleagues. However, some of their ideas are not very practical and I'm worried that if I point this out it will sound sexist. How can I tactfully tell my female colleagues that their project proposals are impractical without sounding sexist?
user
It's important to provide constructive feedback on project proposals that are presented by any colleague. When giving feedback to female colleagues specifically, you can be sure to frame your response with words that emphasize the idea - such as "it sounds like a great idea, however it may not be practical in this context". Additionally, it's essential to make sure your concerns about feasibility are also grounded and addressed in specific examples.
assistant