In this discussion, guests Brad Johnson and David Smith, both esteemed professors and co-authors of influential works on gender equity, delve into the critical role of male allies in the workplace. They share strategies for men to authentically support their female colleagues, emphasizing the balance between involvement and the risk of diminishing women's voices. Joining them, Lily Zheng, a leading diversity consultant, stresses the necessity for systemic change and ongoing advocacy, exploring how remote work has reshaped gender dynamics and the importance of equitable partnerships both at work and home.
Men can effectively support gender equity at work by engaging in mentorship and advocacy while fostering open communications with women.
Systemic changes within organizations, including transparent feedback and inclusive practices, are essential for creating a culture of allyship.
Deep dives
The Role of Male Allyship
Male allyship plays a crucial role in promoting workplace equity, yet many men express uncertainty about how to engage effectively. Studies show that a significant percentage of men want to be part of the solution for gender equality but often lack guidance on actionable steps. This uncertainty can create missed opportunities for collaboration, as women can play an essential role in helping shape the support efforts that would be most beneficial for them. By fostering open dialogues, women can provide insights on what specific forms of mentorship or advocacy would be valuable in creating a more inclusive environment.
Interpersonal vs. Systemic Allyship
The conversation surrounding male allyship often encompasses two broad categories: interpersonal acts of support and systemic interventions. Interpersonal support includes mentorship, advocacy, and creating connections among colleagues, while systemic actions involve addressing structural issues within the workplace, such as calling out inappropriate comments or lobbying for equitable practices. Both aspects are essential, as effective allyship requires not only personal engagement but also a commitment to changing the underlying systems that perpetuate gender bias. Men need to recognize that their efforts can have a profound impact on the workplace if they engage in both relational and systemic ways.
Overcoming Fear and Misunderstandings
Many men hesitate to become allies due to fear of misstepping or misunderstanding appropriate behavior, which can create barriers to effective allyship. This anxiety is often compounded by concerns about being perceived as offering 'benevolent sexism' or overstepping boundaries. To address this, men should focus on clear, specific communication when offering support or mentorship, actively seeking feedback while being mindful of how their intentions may be received. By prioritizing dialogue and openness, men can build stronger relationships with their female colleagues and better understand the unique challenges they face.
Building a Culture of Allyship
Creating a culture of allyship goes beyond individual actions; it requires systemic changes within organizations to foster psychological safety and promote equity. This can include establishing formal channels for transparent feedback, creating inclusive meeting norms, and involving everyone in collective discussions about equity. Employee resource groups can play a significant role, but their effectiveness increases when they are complemented by broader advocacy efforts and support systems, allowing for focused support without alienating potential allies. Ultimately, changing the culture involves recognizing allyship as a shared responsibility among all employees, irrespective of gender.
Gender equity at work won’t happen without men. But what exactly should men be doing? How should they support the women they work with? And in what ways can women shape those efforts so that they actually help us?
We speak with three experts on diversity and inclusion about how men can become effective allies. Brad Johnson and David Smith share best practices for men trying to build stronger relationships with women, and Lily Zheng joins us to talk about allyship on a systemic level.