21 Signs You Work With a Chauvinistic Pig
Work with someone who still thinks sexism is “banter”? Here are 21 signs you work with a chauvinistic pig coworker — plus how to protect yourself professionally.
Introduction
Some workplace characters are irritating.
Some are exhausting.
And then there’s the coworker who somehow still thinks it’s 1974.
The “Chauvinistic Pig” coworker treats women differently, talks down to female colleagues, and acts like basic respect is optional. Sometimes it’s subtle eye-rolls and patronising comments. Sometimes it’s outright inappropriate behaviour disguised as “banter” or “just joking around.”
Either way, the atmosphere changes the second they walk into the room.
And yes — everyone notices it.
21 SIGNS YOU WORK WITH A “CHAUVINISTIC PIG”
1. He calls women “dear” constantly
Not in a warm way. In a patronising “little lady” way.
2. He says “Women…” while rolling his eyes
Usually, after a woman disagrees with him.
3. Female leadership confuses him
A woman being senior to him feels personally offended.
4. He interrupts women constantly
Especially during meetings.
5. He explains obvious things to experienced women
Even when they know more than he does.
6. He calls female coworkers “birds” or “a bit of stuff”
Like he’s trapped in a bad 1980s sitcom.
7. He laughs off inappropriate comments
“It’s only banter” is his emergency defence mechanism.
8. He treats male coworkers with more respect
You can literally hear the tone change.
9. He struggles when women challenge him
His ego short-circuits instantly.
10. He thinks sexism accusations are “overreacting”
Because accountability annoys him.
11. He constantly comments on appearance
Especially things unrelated to work.
12. He believes men are naturally better leaders
Even if the evidence says otherwise.
13. He gets defensive around equality conversations
The victim complex appears immediately.
14. He behaves differently around senior management
Funny how professionalism suddenly appears.
15. He thinks women are “too emotional”
While visibly losing his temper.
16. He talks over women in meetings
Then repeats their idea five minutes later as their own.
17. He makes awkward “jokes”
Then waits for approval, laughter that never comes.
18. He believes HR has “gone soft”
Translation: consequences now exist.
19. He wishes there were “men-only spaces” again
Because modern workplaces upset him deeply.
20. He treats confident women as threats
Not colleagues.
21. The office atmosphere changes when he’s around
People become cautious instead of comfortable.
Why These Coworkers Cause Problems
The issue with this personality type isn’t just irritation.
It’s the long-term effect on morale, confidence, and workplace culture.
People stop speaking openly.
Meetings become uncomfortable.
Talented employees withdraw.
And eventually, resentment builds across teams.
Most modern organisations officially reject this behaviour — but that doesn’t mean it disappears completely.
Sometimes it’s hidden behind humour.
Sometimes it’s protected by seniority.
And sometimes people stay quiet because confronting it feels risky.
💛 Office Bantomime Confidential Drawer — Handling the “Chauvinistic Pig”
The difficult thing about this type of coworker is that they often try to disguise sexism as humour, confidence, old-school values, or “just how they are.”
But persistent disrespect toward women is not harmless workplace banter — especially when it affects confidence, progression, meetings, hiring decisions, or daily wellbeing.
If comments, behaviour, or treatment start making you uncomfortable, document everything clearly and professionally.
- Save inappropriate emails or messages
- Record dates and exact comments made
- Note witnesses if conversations happened publicly
- Keep examples factual and emotion-free
Most organisations — especially corporate environments — will not tolerate sexist behaviour once it becomes visible and evidenced properly.
However, situations can become more difficult when the individual is senior, influential, or protected by status. If the behaviour involves a manager, director, or CEO-type personality, escalation can understandably feel intimidating.
In those situations:
- Raise concerns through HR formally
- Request confidential handling if needed
- Keep communication professional and evidence-based
- Never allow yourself to be isolated in “informal” discussions
If HR fails to act appropriately or the behaviour becomes severe, external advice may be necessary through workplace advisory services, unions, or legal channels.
Most importantly: don’t convince yourself you’re “being dramatic.” Repeated disrespect changes workplace culture over time — and people notice it long before someone finally speaks up.
“Confidence is leadership. Disrespect is insecurity wearing a suit.”
Why Some People Stay Quiet About It
Because awkward workplace dynamics are complicated.
People worry about:
- Being labelled “difficult”
- Causing tension
- Damaging career progression
- Not being believed
- Becoming the target instead
That’s why documentation matters.
Not emotional reactions.
Not office gossip.
Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this type of coworker always intentionally sexist?
Not always consciously, but repeated disrespect, patronising behaviour, or inappropriate comments still create a toxic environment regardless of intent.
Should sexist workplace comments be reported?
If comments are repeated, targeted, inappropriate, or make employees uncomfortable, they should absolutely be documented and escalated professionally.
What if the person making comments is a senior?
Document behaviour carefully and escalate through formal channels. Seniority should never excuse inappropriate treatment.
Can this behaviour affect workplace morale?
Yes. Even subtle sexism creates discomfort, tension, and reduced confidence across teams over time.
What’s the difference between banter and disrespect?
Banter is mutual and enjoyable for everyone involved. Disrespect usually leaves one side uncomfortable, while the other hides behind “just joking.”
James Mason
James Mason
James Mason
James Mason
