On International Men's Day I find myself reflecting on pillar 5 which is concerned with improving gender relations and gender equality. Of course, this is not just a workplace issue but as employers we are responsible for providing and shaping a context where these aims are able to be achieved. People may observe that these are lofty ambitions and the problem can be around where do we start? This need not be as difficult as it first sounds and indeed keeping it simple is a good place to start.
At work for example, ensuring men share tasks equally with women is a good starting point. It is a simple point, but it is a cultural signal that your organisation isn't reinforcing gender stereotypes. Ensuring everyone has the opportunity to speak up and give their views in meetings is another example of how men can play their part in breaking down barriers between the genders and ensure everyone's voice is heard. And on that point, it is essential that we really hear what it is that is being said. Having men really listen to others, and by that I mean both genders, and respond positively to what they hear is a great way for us to change deeply held perceptions we have about the male gender - the notion that men are not really in touch with their own feelings never mind the feelings of others, and particularly the feelings of women. At work we have to create the opportunity for those things to happen as well as to challenge when they are not. In this way we support the discourse around gender relations and equality. Of course there is much more we can do and should do. Things like ensuring you have gender inclusive shortlists, have women mentor men, reducing your gender and bonus pay gaps, offering paid parental leave and offering work/life balance approaches that suit both genders.
So on International Men's Day remember that in the workplace we have many opportunities where we can show how we are supporting gender relations and gender equality. What are you doing?
