If you enjoyed our previous columns on the art of Stereotype Fu, I've made a video presentation using my original columns!
– Steven Savage
stereotype-fu
Stereotype-Fu: Stereotype Evolved
This is the wrap-up to my original "run" of Stereotype-fu columns. I'm sure there will be more, but I've covered most of my intended materials.
I'm going to close with a piece of advice near and dear to my heart: Being Stereotype Evolved.
Stereotype-Fu: Be yourself!
Continuing the series on dealing with stereotypes in your career, one thing people rarely consider is that you can fight the negative stereotypes you face as a fan, techhead, sports nut, etc. by BEING that role to the hilt.
If people hold stereotypes of you, it may be best to not worry about it and go around BEING that fan, b-movie fanatic, comic book reader, etc. to the hilt. In short, be less repressed and more open about your interests and your geekery – without being aggressive.
This doesn't work in every situation – it won't work in the case of hostility, extreme negativity, and conflict. This is more a tactic to help defuse more passive or just plain ignorant stereotyping by BEING the fan you are.