These cartoons hilariously describe the double standards women face at work every day

We’re all aware of the sexist standards most women must face at work. However, that’s a hard pill for some people to swallow. Writer and comedienne Sarah Cooper laughs through the misogynistic pain in a series of brilliant comics, “Nine Non-Threatening Leadership Strategies for Women,” and we love what she’s done.

In an interview with Almie Rose at ATTN, Sarah Cooper explained the genesis of her comic:

We love when artists use their work to take a stand. Below are Sarah Cooper’s witty comics, complete with her tongue-in-cheek explanations, as originally appeared on The Cooper Review:

#1: Setting A Deadline

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When setting a deadline, ask your coworker what he thinks of doing something, instead of just asking him to get it done. This makes him feel less like you’re telling them what to do and more like you care about his opinions.

#2: Sharing Your Ideas

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When sharing your ideas, overconfidence is a killer. You don’t want your male coworkers to think you’re getting all uppity. Instead, downplay your ideas as just “thinking out loud,” “throwing something out there,” or sharing something “dumb,” “random,” or “crazy.”

#3: Emailing A Request

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Pepper your emails with exclamation marks and emojis so you don’t come across as too clear or direct. Your lack of efficient communication will make you seem more approachable.

#4: Someone Steals Your Idea

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If a male coworker steals your idea in a meeting, thank him for it. Give him kudos for how he explained your idea so clearly. And let’s face it, no one might’ve ever heard it if he hadn’t repeated it.

#5: Hearing A Sexist Comment

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When you hear a sexist comment, the awkward laugh is key. Practice your awkward laugh at home, with your friends and family, and in the mirror. Make sure you sound truly delighted even as your soul is dying inside.

#6: When You Already Knew That

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Men love explaining things. But when he’s explaining something and you already know that, it might be tempting to say “I already know that.” Instead, have him explain it to you over and over again. It will make him feel useful and will give you some time to think about out how to avoid him in the future.

#7: If You See A Mistake

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Pointing out a mistake is always risky so it’s important to always apologize for noticing the mistake and then make sure that no one thinks you’re too sure about it. People will appreciate your “hey what do I  know?!” sensibilities.

#8: Collaborating

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When collaborating with a man, type using only one finger. Skill and speed are very off-putting.

#9: When You Disagree

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When all else fails, wear a mustache so everyone sees you as more man-like. This will cancel out any need to change your leadership style. In fact, you may even get a quick promotion!

Sarah Cooper is a writer, comedian and creator of TheCooperReview.com. Her first book, 100 Tricks to Appear Smart in Meetings comes out October 4th. Sign up for her free newsletter to get updates.

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