During my investing days, one of my portfolio companies was owned by a well-known politician.
He was a very articulate guy, often seen on national TV debates. And his wife was the CEO of the company.
This guy had a very progressive image but during our meetings, we would see a totally different face of his. Whenever his wife tried to speak up, he would brusquely cut her off mid-sentence as if she was saying something stupid.
It was blatant ill-treatment.
And his wife was herself a very accomplished woman. Yet, he clearly did not respect her.
In fact even during my career, I also had a boss who started cutting me off frequently. I had to then politely ask him to let me finish my sentences. But looking back, I wish I had been more forceful.
Wherever you work and at whatever level, you are not just a pair of arms and legs. Your opinion matters and it is your job to bring your best ideas to the table. And for that, you have to be heard respectfully.
If that is not happening, it is not something you should have to tolerate.
When we evaluate a job, the metrics we think of are typically salary, perks, and designation. But ask any experienced guy and they will tell you – nothing matters more than self-respect.
Never trade self-respect for money — it has never made anyone happy.
– Rajan