An ally is someone who is not a member of an underrepresented group but who takes action to support that group to help make their workplace more diverse and inclusive for all.
For workplaces to become truly inclusive it is up to people who hold positions of privilege to be active allies and to take responsibility for making changes that will help others be successful.
Allies at all levels can take action with simple, everyday efforts that make a real difference and in this series, we highlight some things that you can do to be an ally and to support your colleagues from underrepresented groups.
#31: Share your experiences and talk about mental health
Properly changing the culture of a firm is a top-down process. It starts with transforming leaders into allies. This can mean encouraging board members, partners, managers, and other senior employees to share their experiences (or those of close family members or friends). This can particularly help with mental health and disability where there are likely to be low levels of self-identification and disclosure.
It is important for senior staff to showcase disclosure and vulnerability as strengths, not weaknesses. Leaders within the firm should share their experiences by hosting panel events or conversation opportunities for staff to attend, by sharing in team meetings and/or more informal open conversations with their colleagues.
By being open and sharing your experiences you can help create a culture where people feel comfortable enough to disclosure. However, it is important to remember, it is up to the other people whether they want disclose or share their experience. It is an individual choice.
Read the full “How to be an Ally” series here.
