Also if this is confusing, I'd suggest taking classes on a language other than English. I know that at least in French, mixed-gender-groups take the masculine plural form.
I often leave work by saying 'cheers guys' or 'have a good evening guys' to a mixed gender group and then ponder in the elevator down if, perhaps, I've offended females with my casual nomenclature?
I think it probably is slightly misogynistic. Not my personal intent, but inherited from history?
What term could I use instead? 'Guys and Gals' seems old fashioned and too wordy. And the set order of the list might imply something. 'People' seems too cold.
I reckon using "guys" as a gender-neutral term for a mixed gender bunch is ok.
Here is an interesting discussion on the topic: http://english.stackexchange.com/questions/11816/is-guy-gend...
Also if this is confusing, I'd suggest taking classes on a language other than English. I know that at least in French, mixed-gender-groups take the masculine plural form.
In fact, here is another discussion (same site): http://english.stackexchange.com/questions/19074/what-is-a-f...
"Guys" can also refer to a group of women.