What Does It Mean to Be a ‘Male Ally’?

Gender equity has long been regarded as a ‘woman’s problem’ to solve but it’s actually society’s problem to solve… and men should be front and centre of the solution.

But what does it really mean to be a ‘male ally’?

What actions could a man take to support change and also create genuine competitive advantage within his organisation by supporting the women in it?

How to Be a Male Ally – 5 Behaviours

Here are just 5 behaviours that I regard as deeply important, to get this conversation started:

Behaviour #1
Call out casual sexism and bias at work and at play. It starts with this simple step… it’s not necessarily an easy step… but it’s a critical one.

Behaviour #2
Recognise that, as a man with certain privilege you have the ability to initiate and influence conversations and decisions around your workplace that can lead to greater equity.

Behaviour #3
You must care deeply about wanting to see systemic change and be genuinely driven to be part of the solution. One step could be identifying female stars within your team and organisation and actively endorsing them. Making women aware of upcoming career opportunities internally, to give them a chance to apply, would also be an act of allyship (and effective leadership too).

Behaviour #4
Publicly support and include women in the discussion. Ask for their opinions, especially in public forums. And acknowledge their contributions too.

Behaviour #5
Encourage more of your male colleagues and friends to do all of the above. Men need to play a sizeable role in the solution… when women talk to each other about these issues we are talking to the converted. The tipping point will only come when men involve themselves fully.

What do you think about these behaviours?
What else would you include?

Let me know in the comments below!

Rebecca x