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How to be an even better ally at work
Do you wonder how you can actively support your LGBTQ+ colleagues? Here are five tips.
As we celebrate Pride Month, remember that allyship is an ongoing commitment. Here are five behaviors of a great ally:
Listening to understand
You may be completely supportive of LGBTQ+ issues. But it’s a step change to truly understand what members of this group may be facing daily. A great ally takes time to comprehend the discrimination and violence experienced by our friends and colleagues. Serve as a secure base and listen without judgment.
Avoiding personal assumptions
Particularly when starting a new job, people who identify as LGBTQ+ are often confronted with seemingly harmless, but also baseless, presumptions about their personal lives. Be aware of this and avoid making assumptions. Pointed questions about a person’s wife/husband may make it difficult for someone to feel they can be themselves.
Being a sponsor
Invite more people into your professional circles to boost their visibility. A lot of networking and collaboration happens outside of the formal work environment. You can make a difference by being inclusive outside of the office too.
Widening your inclusion circles
As a corporate leader, you can also raise the bar in creating an inclusive environment well beyond your organization. Ask about the DE&I practices of your vendors, contractors, and suppliers. They should feel pressure to be inclusive, too.
Showing up all year
Pride Month is just one in 12. And yet, moments when great allies can step forward are always there. Choose to be visible not only during June but all year round.
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