Being a great ally requires understanding where we are on a spectrum - from active resistance to active support. We all know, or think we know what resistance looks like in organizations. But do we know what action truly looks like?

Listen to a short segment below about the bell curve or spectrum of allies.

If you selected neutral, passive or active support - move on to the next section on tips for being a great ally at work (and in your community).

Shifting towards active allyship

An ally is anyone who stands in support of, and takes actions in support of a historically marginalized group. In simplistic terms, men can be allies to women at work, white-identifying team members can be allies to people of color, straight cis-gendered folks can be allies to those in the LGTQIA+ community.

It's important to note that allyship is about taking actions.

Let's watch the talk below and take note of the three actions.

3 Ways To Be A Better Ally In The Workplace

1. Don't interrupt. Underrepresented people are more likely to be interrupted, so just take a step back and listen. Echo and attribute.
2. Advocate for underrepresented people in small ways. Intervene; you can change the power dynamics in the room. If you see somebody is the only person in the room like them and they are being belittled, they are being interrupted, do something, say something. 
3. Change someone's life significantly. So, be there for somebody throughout their career. Mentor or sponsor them, give them opportunities as they grow.

Reflection

Take a moment to reflect on the prompts below:

• Which of these are you doing now?
• Which of these are you willing to try tomorrow?
• Which of these require significant changes to your company culture?