Specifically, if a kiss – even an innocent, joyous one – shifts the focus from a woman’s job and talents to their personal boundaries. If it raises the question about whether they have the power and will to protect those boundaries, or have to laugh it off to save face, maybe save their job.
A simple kiss. But is it the right idea for a workplace environment?Credit: Seven News
While Holmes looked fine with the reciprocated smooch, I wonder if she flashed ahead to what her boss would say and what the audience would think: A guy just kissed me on air. Crap. Just as Mel McLaughlin ploughed on and later said she was uncomfortable when repugnant cricketer Chris Gayle told her “don’t blush baby” and asked her for a drink on air in 2016.
The power dynamics in Holmes’ world are already skewed. Yeah, she’s on telly, has an established career, holds some cards. But in her role, is there pressure to maintain a positive rapport with players for continued access that could lead to a reluctance to call out inappropriate behaviour?
Hello, cycle of discomfort, blurring of boundaries and the message that public displays of affection towards women at work means we are objects of affection. In Holmes’ case, maybe other players now think they should casually kiss her too.
Confusingly, I feel if a male player got kissy with a male host during an adieu, it would be kind of adorable. Bros showing their sensitive side. So now I also have double standards that need to be worked through.
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I ring a media mate who says remote working has changed dynamics. She recently embraced her company’s female GM of legal when they met IRL in a lift.
“Often you’re on projects with people and talk to them every day but don’t meet in person for a year. Then shaking hands feels weird, so you end up going, “We should bring it in.”
Even if Holmes gave the kiss no second thought, networks and AFL clubs should give their troops a half-time speech: kissing on air is out of bounds. It’s 2024, not a 1970s Christmas party with a handsy boss handing out Brandivinos and murmuring your Prince Matchabelli smells great.
Kate Halfpenny is the founder of Bad Mother Media.
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