25: Law as a Gendered Organization Part I

Distinct pros and cons accompany a woman's choice of whether to use sexualized behavior in the workplace, or not. On the pro side, sexualized behavior, when wielded properly, is an advantage that women have over men and should be deployed to gain whatever positive outcomes that it can. In Holly English's Gender on Trial, English explains that a woman can use her looks or charms, not necessarily in place to do anything but project confidence and professionalism, to flatter a male in order to receive a favorable outcome. One woman with whom English spoke said, "I just think that women have tools that they can use," adding, "We should not be deprived of using those tools, especially if those tools include the ability to develop collaboration" (43).

The con side contends that using one's sexuality as a means of getting ahead demeans any professionalism that one may possess or assert. Stooping to utilize sexuality as a weapon diminishes credibility because being a good flirt is not equitable to being a good lawyer, being intelligent or astute. It runs the risk of coming off as deceptive, conniving, and has the potential to severely alienate a woman from her co-workers.