The Discreet Guide for Executive Women: How To Work Well with Men (and Other Difficulties)

Veteran corporate executive Crittenden offers advice to other women executives at all stages of their careers, discussing everything from education and job interviews to how to acquit themselves gracefully in powerful positions. The crux of her argument is that women remain underrepresented at the highest levels in the workplace and must continue to combat discrimination by being prepared for a variety of gender-specific challenges and by finding ways to work well with men. Some of the language is a touch forced (the second chapter is titled "Your Sistas and You"), but for the most part Crittenden's advice on wide-ranging topics, including networking, gaining promotions, listening, public speaking, avoiding sexual harassment, and many others, is frank and practical. The book has no index and could have used a more cohesive conclusion, but it is a solid read. It was the recipient of a 2012 National Indie Excellence Book Award.