Hello men 👋
I’ve shared stats before about how much more likely diversity and inclusion initiatives are to be successful, when men actively participate, and we are back on that band wagon again today.
I know many wonderful men in my industry, men who are great to work with, fun to be around, supportive, helpful, kind. But I know precious few who do all of that AND actively advocate for a more diverse and inclusive workplace.
I’m talking less than 5 who I would say take tangible and meaningful action to drive change. Given that my industry is made up of around 88% men, that is a very concerning number.
So let’s talk about what meaningful action looks like:
- It means sponsoring women and minorities. Help us get jobs, promotions, access training and development opportunities. Make introductions and referrals. Don’t just tell us we’re great, help us BE great.
- Speak up and often about the problems in the industry, and what you are doing about them (and what needs to be done in general). Choosing to stay silent is a demonstration of privilege.
- Praise publicly. Sometimes it’s the simplest things that make a big difference. The next time you go to privately message or email a woman or minority to thank them or tell them they are awesome, do it publicly instead. Cc in their boss, write a LinkedIn recommendation, comment on a public post rather than send a DM.
- Take part in the unpaid work. Diversity and inclusion initiatives in the workplace are still woefully under-funded and under-resourced, and if you look at the people using their non-existent free time to drive change, they are mostly women and other minorities. Given that men make up the majority in my industry, why aren’t there more of you in diversity and inclusion groups?
So to my male followers, I want you to do some reflecting today. I know you all give a shit because you’re here reading this. But I want you to reflect on what you actually DO. Be self-critical, hold yourself to account.
You don’t need to take over, but you do need to take part.
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#maleallyship #takepart #genderequality #equitydiversityinclusion #men #construction Neil Hudson-Basing
This is truly inspiring! 🙌