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.
Offer Flexible Working Opportunities (and say it in your job ads)
Advertise your roles as flexible. Flexibility is possible in most roles. Firms should start from the assumption that any role can be done in a flexible way. For example, this might be flexible in terms of the number of hours and/or work pattern or flexible as to the location.
To attract a diverse pool of candidates you should advertise jobs as flexible. When offering flexible working in a job advert, it is important to put the message across in a way that is positive and clear and obvious to job seekers.
Be specific about the types of flexible working options that you will consider, and state that you are happy to discuss other forms of flexibility. Show on the recruitment/careers pages of your website that you offer flexible working opportunities. For example, use case studies and examples of flexible working options that have worked for your firm.
Remember flexible working can benefit everyone including: those studying part time, parents, carers, disabled staff and those who want more balance in their lives.
Be an ally by offering genuine flexible working options, working with your employees/colleagues to ensure they have a workable arrangement and are not disadvantaged by having a flexible working arrangement in place.
Read the full “How to be an Ally” series here.
