Tumbleweeds and the 1950's

Promotion went to a male colleague with less experience

I'd been in the role for three years, had led two major projects, and had the support of my manager. When the senior role opened, they gave it to a guy who'd been there 18 months. I was told I 'needed to be more visible'. I left within six months.

Anonymous · 6/4/2026

Maternity leave comeback was brutal

Came back after 12 months to a 'restructure'. My role had been split and given to two others. I was offered a more junior position. No one had discussed it with me while I was on leave. Still fighting to get back to where I was.

Mentioned: A large retail group

Anonymous · 6/4/2026

Paid 15% less than my male counterpart for the same job

Found out by accident when we compared notes. Same title, same team, I had more experience. He'd negotiated; I'd been told the offer was 'non-negotiable'. I've since left and now always ask for the band and push back.

Anonymous · 5/29/2026

Spoke up in a meeting and was talked over repeatedly

I presented the data; a male colleague repeated the same points five minutes later and got the credit. When I pointed it out later I was told I was 'being sensitive'. This culture is why I'm looking for a new job.

By Jamie · 5/29/2026