Page 18 - Perspectives Vol.15 Issue 2

Navigating Gender
Sensitivity and Inclusion in
the Workplace
Elizabeth Chrane, Chief People Officer, OneDigital
In honor of the recent celebration of International Women’s Day, it’s timely to address gender sensitivity in the workplace. We live in the era of the #MeToo movement, and that has empowered many women to speak up when they don’t feel comfortable. This has also sparked some fear for men who want to do the right thing but are worried or scared to say or do anything that may be construed as offensive.
“If you are unsure, then you probably shouldn’t say it,” said one female leader. Another piped up, “I don’t mind if you ask me whether or not something is appropriate. In fact, I’d prefer that. The only way we can learn how to navigate this is if we talk about it.”
Inaction can lead
I spoke recently to a team that was facilitating a workshop for senior leaders about gender sensitivity and inclusion. One person started by saying, “I give up! I don’t know what I’m allowed to say when, without worrying that I’m offending someone or making them uncomfortable.” I’m pretty
sure I saw a few women roll their eyes, and then a healthy discussion began.
to a lack of inclusion.
Everyone agreed that to get past the awkwardness and inappropriateness—or worse, the silence—open discussion was needed. The vast majority of this team had good intentions, but fear was driving inaction. And inaction can lead to a lack of inclusion.
16 Vol. 15, Issue 2