Be an Ally and Make Your Workplace a Better Place to Be

Friends are great. They provide social connection and emotional support. They walk through life side by side with us. In business you need alliances. These relationships are created between people who advocate for each other with the purpose of creating inclusion and equality.  

“Allys are powerful relationships to have. They are a chance to build a better workplace for everyone” - Cathy Lindemann, WISe Business Coach in Residence

Generally an ally wants to help someone who is in a marginalized position. They have knowledge, experience, or leadership that they want to use to uncover and challenge business practices that are holding back progress toward equality in the workspace. Allys are most effective when they are not trying to gain attention or benefit themselves. 

Perhaps a woman is being overlooked for a promotion because of her gender. Or a  local professional organization slights a new minority-owned business by not inviting them to a monthly gathering. Even gossip in the break room can unnecessarily injure reputations. 

Each of these is an opportunity for you to speak up in a way that encourages others to learn, think, and speak in ways that will change office behavior to increase equality.  

The responsibility to create a more equitable workplace falls on each of us. This month watch for situations in the office where you can step in as an advocate and then do it.  

Book a one-hour business coaching session with Cathy here.
Cathy Lindemann is the WISe Business Coach in Residence, President of Evolution Creative