#103 “A technician's sex or perceived gender has absolutely nothing to do with how much they know about your technology.”

“This isn't a specific story because it happens all the time, and I don't know why this NEEDS to be emphasized over and over, but if you're a man asking for tech support, don't tell your woman technician that you want to work with a man instead (unless you love the drama, in which case, get out of line and let someone nicer have a chance). A technician's sex or perceived gender has absolutely nothing to do with how much they know about your technology. The action of turning down assistance from the person helping you just because of how they appear to you tells them that you don't actually care about getting help. Instead, it's a red flag that you like to cause problems, and it makes everyone who would've helped you much less likely to be complicit in helping you. It doesn't matter where you grew up, or when, or what your past experiences were... bringing that bias into the situation starts you off on the wrong foot. Don't do it. If you're asking for help and someone is helping you, be respectful and listen to them. A man saying the EXACT SAME THING a woman says doesn't make his support any more helpful or valid than a woman's. For all you know, that woman has been there longer, or has even (gasp) helped train the men on her team. Be respectful.”