The crucial role men can play in shaping a gender-balanced workplace

Men can proactively contribute to dismantling gender barriers at work and challenging stereotypes. Dawn Leane explains how

While much of the conversation concerning gender balance focuses on supporting women, men have a pivotal role to play in dismantling barriers, challenging stereotypes and reshaping organisational culture.

Gender balance is not a zero-sum game. Men are also negatively impacted by outdated workplace environments – family-friendly policies aimed solely at women, for example.

The active involvement of male allies can be an agent for positive change and can have a profound impact by raising awareness about gender bias, sexism and other forms of discrimination facing women in the workplace and wider society.

Yet it can prove very challenging for men to confront the issues encountered by their female colleagues. The subject is complex and organisational culture and norms of behaviour often don’t support their intervention.

Take, for example, the issue of everyday sexism at work. A report by Catalyst, an organisation committed to advancing the representation of women in the workplace, suggests that not only is it difficult to recognise sexism in the first place or deem it inappropriate, but men are often unsure of how to address the behaviour when they do recognise it.

The report suggests that men’s willingness to intervene depends on two factors: personal agency and organisational climate. Men who are committed to dismantling sexism are more likely to take action. They are confident in their ability to interrupt and aware of the positive benefits of doing so for the common good.

An unwillingness to interrupt a sexist event in their workplace is also influenced by organisational climate. Environments perceived by men to be more silencing, combative and futile are associated with a lack of response to sexism at work.

As Peter Drucker famously said, ‘Culture eats strategy for breakfast’.

How, then, can men help to create a workplace culture where everyone, regardless of gender, can thrive and succeed?

1. Understand the issues: Men can start by informing themselves about the challenges women face in their workplace, bearing in mind that cultural issues can differ from team to team and from one organisation to the next.
2. Challenge sexism and stereotypes: Actively challenging and questioning gender stereotypes involves avoiding assumptions about roles and capabilities based on gender. Use language that is neutral and avoids reinforcing gender stereotypes.
3. Amplify the voices of women in the workplace: Create an environment that is psychologically safe for women to contribute. For example, give credit where it's due, acknowledge achievements and ensure that success is rewarded.
4. Mentorship and sponsorship: Men can play a vital role in mentoring and sponsoring women within organisations. This involves offering guidance, providing opportunities for skill development and advocating for women in leadership positions.
5. Advocate for equal opportunities: Men can use their positions of influence to advocate for equal opportunities. This includes pushing for fair selection practices, equal pay and creating policies that support work-life balance for all employees.
6. Set an example: Demonstrating a commitment to gender balance through their own actions might involve actively participating in gender balance initiatives, acknowledging and rectifying biased behaviour and setting an example for others to follow.
7. Speak up against discrimination: When men witness gender discrimination or inappropriate behaviour, it is crucial to speak up. Being an ally means actively confronting and addressing instances of discrimination, both direct and indirect.

By embracing these actions, men can help create a more level playing field for their female counterparts – this can only be good for all involved.

Dawn Leane is Chief Learning and Development Officer at Advancia