As a WORK180 Endorsed Employer, we know LiveTiles is dedicated to supporting diversity, inclusion and equality — endeavors that require the support of everyone in the organization. To find out more, we recently interviewed Eric Davis | Sr. Generalist – People and Experience, who is just one of the many men working to support gender equality at LiveTiles.
From actively improving the workplace to the behaviors he role models both in and out of work, Eric tells us what it takes to be a male ally and why it’s important to him.
How can men be better allies to women?
Active listening and standing up for others. It’s not enough to listen and nod my head or not get involved if things aren’t directed at me. I need to thoroughly try to understand the roots of issues that are being mentioned to me and be engaged in trying to make things better in the workplace. Furthermore, it is important to be able to support those individuals whether one-on-one or in a group setting. I want my place of work to be an open, safe, creative, and yes, fun place. For that to happen we need to be respectful of everyone.
What can a male ally do on a day-to-day basis in the workplace to drive gender equality?
One of the things I try to do in my workplace is to help build and develop a culture that is inviting and open to all. I try to avoid terms that may favor one gender over the other and always try my best to ensure everyone feels included.
Why is being a male ally important to you?
I think it is very important to have a respectful and strong workplace and I am proud to be an ally to such incredible people. Not only does it build on teambuilding and productivity in the workplace, but having allies in the workplace (not just myself) helps drive individuals to work knowing they are in a safe and equal environment. If someone doesn’t feel that way, I do encourage them to come to speak to me, so we can try to make changes.
Without being an ally, I won’t become a trusted person and have less of a leg to stand on to try to encourage change. Allowing others to do what they do best not only grows the business but will grow individuals. Being someone who can be there for others only grows our workforce and community.
What are the behaviors you role model at home as a male ally?
I’m a firm believer in practicing what I preach. I try to make my home life very similar to my work life. I would never want someone to feel uncomfortable in my place of home and that is the same in the workplace. With that being said, some of the behaviors I embody at home are respect, honesty, kindness, and patience.
Ready to find a supportive workplace like Eric’s?
WORK180 is here to help! You can explore a range of exciting roles with trailblazing Endorsed Employers like LiveTiles on our jobs page.