How to be a better ally

The obstacles to inclusion are also intentional or unintentional micro-aggressions, which to eat away at individuals, corrode innovation and teamwork, and ultimately spawn a toxic corporate culture.

Negative verbal or non-verbal communication, everyday slights or insults that occur so frequently that they almost pass unnoticed… How can we make things better? The answer is to become an ally of anyone who doesn’t have access to the same opportunities—after all, inclusion isn’t just a project led by the diversity team: it’s everyone’s business.
Three ideas to think about:

Start by doing no harm (that’s the cornerstone). Listen, and pay close attention when other people are talking; unlearn all those little uncivil behaviors such as tapping away on your laptop or cell phone during a presentation; and correct yourself (or your colleagues) if you talk over someone else.

Become an advocate for under-represented individuals, even if it only means calling out someone who has interrupted a more junior colleague. Even the smallest gestures can help change behaviors and shift the power dynamics.

Transform someone’s life. Act as a mentor or sponsor, and back up somebody’s career.