When talking about diversity, equality and inclusion, men are often absent from the conversation. In a survey on the topic, 68% of men said they did not identify with the topic. Some of them said they felt they themselves contributed to the problem. 64% said they lacked the confidence to talk about the topic with colleagues from marginalised groups.
Given that senior positions are predominantly held by men and there are still many industries that predominantly employ men, their inclusion should be a major part of efforts towards equality.
A sense of inclusion
Diversity does not exist without inclusion. Multiple studies have shown that when employees feel included, they feel a sense of belonging, which leads to increased positive performance outcomes and creates collaborative teams that are innovative and engaging.
Inclusion doesn’t happen by itself, it’s not enough to just say a group is included and have it automatically happen. In order for a person to get a real sense of being included and belonging in their workplace, they must have the opportunity to be their “authentic self”. The perception that when one shows oneself fully in a professional and personal light, it can disadvantage him/her leads to “hiding”.
Fighting the stereotypes
Communication shapes perceptions of the roles that women and men have in society and in the labour market. Stereotypical statements disadvantage men and damage the sense of inclusion. Traditional gender stereotypes dictate that men are rational, logical, assertive and strong. As a result, things like vulnerability, emotional expression and falling short of expectations are socially unacceptable to them. This combination of socially constructed expectations has a significant impact on men’s isolation and the rise in mental health problems.
In their personal lives, men also struggle with stereotypes about their role in caring for the home and family. Men are willing to take on more responsibilities related to caring for children and elderly loved ones, as well as household tasks. However, ingrained social expectations and lack of support discourage them from doing so.
Cultural norms make it harder to persuade men to accept the vulnerability needed to truly belong.
