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How to be an ally to women at work

Written by
Femme Palette
Published on
May 2, 2023

Are you interested in being a better ally to women in the workplace? Good news – you're in the right place! We know that it can be tough to navigate the world of gender dynamics and inequality, especially if you're not used to thinking about these issues on a regular basis. But don't worry – we've got your back!

This resource is divided into three parts that will help you be a better ally to women in your workplace. First, we'll talk about using inclusive language, including a glossary of examples to help you get started. Then, we'll recommend some great books that can help you educate yourself on the issues. Finally, we'll give you some tips on how you can use your privilege to support and advocate for women in the workplace. Ready to dive in? Let's go!

Use inclusive language

Have you ever used a gender-inclusive language glossary? It's a super helpful tool containing words and phrases that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. It's kind of like a cheat sheet for using non-discriminatory, non-offensive, and respectful language towards everyone, regardless of their gender.

Using inclusive language towards (not only) women in the workplace is really important because the way we talk and write can have a big impact on our thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors. When we use non-inclusive language, we can accidentally reinforce stereotypes and biases that lead to discrimination and inequality. But when we use inclusive language, we create a more welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and valued. 

By using this inclusive language mini glossary, you can learn how to communicate in a way that promotes diversity and equality, and helps to build a workplace culture that celebrates all individuals.

Download our Inclusive Language Guide to learn how to use inclusive language in the workplace towards other underrepresented groups.

Your mini guide to gender-inclusive language

Non-inclusive: "You guys."

Inclusive: "You all," "folks," "team," "colleagues."

Non-inclusive: "Fireman," "policeman," "stewardess," "waitress."

Inclusive: "Firefighter," "police officer," "flight attendant," "server."

Non-inclusive: "He" or "she" when the gender is unknown.

Inclusive: "They" or "them."

Non-inclusive: "Chairman."

Inclusive: "Chair," "chairperson," "chairwoman."

Non-inclusive: "Salesman."

Inclusive: "Salesperson," "sales representative."

Non-inclusive: "Actress," "hostess."

Inclusive: "Actor," "host."

Non-inclusive: "Businessman," "salesman."

Inclusive: "Businessperson," "salesperson."

Non-inclusive: "Mankind," "manpower."

Inclusive: "Humanity," "workforce," "people."

Non-inclusive: "Hey, guys!" or "Good morning, gentlemen!"

Inclusive: "Hey, everyone!" or "Good morning, team!"

Educate yourself

Becoming an ally of any sort requires a certain degree of knowledge and understanding of the underrepresented group’s struggles. These books can help you develop a better understanding of the challenges that women face in the workplace and provide you with practical strategies for becoming a better ally and creating a more inclusive workplace culture.

  1. "Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead" by Sheryl Sandberg: This book is a must-read for anyone looking to understand the challenges that women face in the workplace and how to support them. Sandberg shares her personal experiences and offers practical advice on how to overcome barriers and achieve success.
  1. "Women Don't Ask: The High Cost of Avoiding Negotiation--and Positive Strategies for Change" by Linda Babcock and Sara Laschever: This book examines the ways in which women are socialized to avoid negotiation and how this can impact their careers. It offers practical strategies for women to become more comfortable with negotiating and encourages employers to create a more equitable workplace.
  1. "The Confidence Code: The Science and Art of Self-Assurance--What Women Should Know" by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman: This book explores the reasons why women often lack confidence and how this can hold them back in the workplace. It provides insights on how to cultivate confidence and overcome self-doubt.
  1. "Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men" by Caroline Criado-Perez: This book reveals the ways in which women are often left out of decision-making processes because of a lack of gender-disaggregated data. It provides insights on how to create more inclusive policies and practices by taking into account the needs and experiences of women.
  1. "Feminist Fight Club: An Office Survival Manual for a Sexist Workplace" by Jessica Bennett: This book provides practical tips and strategies for combating sexism and bias in the workplace. It includes personal anecdotes and humorous illustrations that make it an engaging and accessible read.

Use your privilege

As a man, you may have certain privileges in the workplace that your female colleagues do not have. Privilege refers to the advantages that certain groups of people have in society, often based on their race, gender, or socioeconomic status. While it is important to recognize and acknowledge your privilege, it is also important to use it to create a more inclusive workplace for everyone.

Here are some tips on how to use your privilege as a man in the workplace to help make it more inclusive for women and be a better ally to them:

  1. Listen and learn: Take the time to listen to your female colleagues and learn about their experiences in the workplace. Be open to feedback and constructive criticism, and use it to improve your own behavior and that of others.
  2. Speak up: Use your privilege and influence to advocate for women and amplify their voices. This can include speaking up in meetings, sharing their ideas with others, and promoting their work to others.
  3. Mentor and sponsor: Mentorship and sponsorship can be powerful tools for supporting women in the workplace. Consider mentoring a female colleague or sponsoring her for a leadership position, and use your influence to help her advance her career.
  4. Educate yourself: Take the time to educate yourself on issues of gender equality and how they impact the workplace. Read books, attend workshops, and seek out opportunities to learn more about these issues.
  5. Be mindful of language: Pay attention to the language you use and the impact it may have on others. Use inclusive language that does not make assumptions about gender or reinforce stereotypes.
  6. Challenge sexism and bias: If you witness sexism or bias in the workplace, speak up and challenge it. This can include calling out inappropriate behavior or language, and advocating for policies and practices that promote diversity and inclusion.

By using your privilege as a man in the workplace to support and advocate for women, you can help create a more inclusive and equitable workplace for everyone. Remember that privilege is not a bad thing, but it comes with a responsibility to use it for good.

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