2 What other strategies might Ethney adopt to work with the oil company men as an active member of the team? What are the pros and cons of each strategy? Ethney Gentry was thrilled to have infiltrated the 'good old boy' network, landing a job with a mid-size, Perth-based oil company. Armed with solid credentials and what she considered the strengths of female leadership-listening, collaboration, consensus building and organisation - she looked forward to her first meeting with the company's first female manager, Alexis Bale, who was about to retire. Alexis offered a firm handshake and a cup of coffee. I've been looking forward to meeting you, Alexis', Ethney said. 'It's Alex.' 'Oh, I didn't know.' Ethney took a sip of piping hot coffee with a sudden feeling of discomfort. The first moments of this much-anticipated meeting seemed awkward and strained. 'I'll be honest with you', Alex said as she walked around and sat in the chair behind her desk. 'You're here for the same reason I was here. When our founder, Champ Luman, died 12 years ago, his three middle-aged daughters, referred to throughout the company as the girls, became major shareholders. They pushed hard for the inclusion of a woman in management. That was me. Now it's you.' Ethney tried to show no reaction as she set her cup on the desk. 'Are you implying that I was selected over more qualified male candidates?'