At Her New Standard, we believe in the power of allyship to drive meaningful change and create a more inclusive workplace.
That’s why we were thrilled to have W. Brad Johnson, PhD and David G. Smith, PhD from Workplace Allies join our HNS Women’s Leadership Development Roundtable to share their insights on Men as Allies: Best Practices for Powerful Gender Partnerships.
Inspired by their expertise and the valuable contributions of our community of Talent, DEI, and HR leaders, we’ve compiled these 7 Tips for Men to Support Gender Equity in the Workplace:
1. Ask Women What They Need
Instead of making assumptions, seek input from women to understand how you can support them effectively. Listening to their experiences and perspectives is crucial in driving positive change.
2. Pay Attention to Inclusion
Take notice of who is present and who is absent in meetings or discussions. Be mindful of who dominates the conversation and who gets interrupted. Encourage equal participation and create space for diverse voices to be heard.
3. Mentorship for Women of Color
Shockingly, 59% of Black women have never had access to interact with upper management. Actively promote mentorship opportunities for women of color, as it has been shown that women receive more raises and promotions when mentored by men.
4. Share Household Responsibilities
Help break the gender imbalance by doing more at home. Women often bear the burden of double the amount of housework, which can hinder their career growth. By sharing domestic responsibilities, you enable women to have more time and energy to focus on their professional goals.
5. Lead by Example
Senior leaders can make a significant impact by openly embracing their roles as caregivers. By “leaving loudly” and being transparent about family commitments, they reduce the stigma associated with sharing childcare responsibilities and create a more supportive environment.
6. Engage Men in Diversity Events
Invite men to participate in women’s Employee Resource Group events. Involving men in discussions about gender equity fosters understanding, collaboration, and collective action towards a more inclusive workplace.
7. Disrupt Bias Immediately
Act swiftly when you encounter bias. Within two seconds of hearing biased comments, interrupt and express your discomfort. A simple “Ouch” can signal your disapproval and prompt others to reflect on their language and behavior.
By implementing these tips, men can actively contribute to creating a more equitable and inclusive workplace for everyone. Let’s come together to drive positive change, break down barriers to gender equity, and empower women to reach their full potential.
Join us in our mission to build a better future, one where gender equity is the standard. Together, we can make a difference.
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