YES Ma’am!

"When I moved to Chandigarh after my husband got transferred here, people told him that this was not the right profession for women. He simply told them that this was my profession, and I would learn to manage. I did," she says firmly.

It took time, though. "I had to learn the little things here. One, do not shake hands with men even when you meet them professionally, as was the practice in Delhi. Namaste from a distance was the better option. Also, I had to work to convince people that I meant business; I was not there simply to meet them and look charming. And of course, never dine with a client outside; it has to be either in a group or with the family. All this simply because I was a woman; few people realised that you were a professional too."

While the quality of leadership is a must in a boss, whether a man or a woman, Sneh says a woman boss has to face other problems. "People seem to have a problem in accepting a woman boss, and you can deal with it firmly only if you know your job and are good at it." But the staff is not of much help when it comes to tough situations. "During the days of terrorism, I was working in my office when a person came and threatened me with dire consequences if I did not get his material published. All the employees sat around quietly while I grappled with the situation and stuck to my ground," she recalls. "Thank goodness things were resolved without a major crisis."Her family, says Sneh, has been big support. "Now, when I sometimes mention that I may quit, my children put me off. They say you are happier when you are working, so please continue," she chuckles. And while she does, the goal is to reach greater heights.