WTW's Caroline Barber discusses LGBTQ+ allyship in the workplace

WTW Global Program Manager for Inclusive Recruitment Caroline Barber spoke with myGwork, a thriving global business community that supports LGBTQ+ in the workplace, about how organizations can ensure employees feel comfortable to be themselves through enjoying an open work environment. Caroline also describes what allyship means to her, and the importance of building understanding.

Inclusion is something that needs to be celebrated and supported day in and day out - not just at certain points during the year. Inclusion must be part of an organization's DNA and values.

The purpose of Caroline's role is to fully embed WTW's Inclusive Recruitment Strategy and to come up with new initiatives and ideas to attract and hire more diverse talent.

Education is key

Sharing her thoughts for those who seek to be a better ally, Caroline suggests that education is key.

"I’m always looking for new ways of learning more about the LGBTQ+ community and not being afraid of asking questions," she explains. "I’ve also found that attending various events such as WorkPride is invaluable as it enables you to attend a large range of sessions in respect of different subjects. Knowledge really is empowering where allyship is concerned."

When asked how organizations can ensure everyone feels comfortable to be themselves in the workplace, Caroline explains that colleague inclusion networks have a significant role to play, and that at WTW these communities form an integral part of the culture at WTW .

"The support from senior leadership demonstrates how important this is to us as an organization. Inclusion is also something that needs to be celebrated and supported day in, day out, not just at certain points during the year," attests Caroline.

Actions speak louder than words

For Caroline, one of the most important aspects about allyship is to keep educating herself, and to not rely on the community to do this for her.

"Allyship is about showing support and advocacy whilst remaining authentic. Speaking out and being visible is crucial to being an active ally. Actions speak louder than words," says Caroline, who leads by example.