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Following the remarkable feedback on her article, In professional settings, everyone has a part to play in ensuring a respectful and inclusive environment. For men attending networking events, taking proactive steps to support the safety and comfort of women can help foster a welcoming, collaborative atmosphere where everyone can focus on professional growth. Here are some thoughtful tips for men on how to make networking events safer for women.
Be mindful of personal space
Respecting personal space is key to making women feel safe and comfortable. Maintaining an appropriate distance at busy events can prevent unintentional discomfort and foster a respectful environment.
Practical Tips:
- Gauge cues: Pay attention to body language – if someone steps back, mirror this by creating more space.
- Avoid overcrowding: In groups, make sure everyone has room to move and speak freely.
Keep conversations professional and respectful
Keep discussions relevant to the event’s purpose and avoid overly personal questions. Not only does this show professionalism, but it also reduces the likelihood of anyone feeling uncomfortable or scrutinised.
Practical Tips:
- Focus on common interests: Stick to industry-related topics and professional goals.
- Respect personal boundaries: If a woman redirects or changes the subject, respect the change and avoid prying.
Offer allyship and support when needed
Being a supportive presence can make a big difference. If you notice a woman looking uncomfortable or being cornered, find subtle ways to intervene or offer her an exit from the situation. Allyship doesn’t mean being confrontational but rather tactfully assisting where possible.
Practical Tips:
- Introduce yourself as a support: Simply engaging and redirecting a conversation can create a comfortable dynamic.
- “Friendly interruption”: If someone looks uncomfortable, a light interruption, like introducing a new topic, can ease the tension.
Respect social cues and boundaries
Paying attention to body language and verbal cues is key to recognising when someone is uncomfortable. If a woman looks away frequently, checks her phone, or doesn’t engage fully, these may be signs to give her space or politely end the interaction.
Practical Tips:
- Be ready to wrap up: If you sense that someone isn’t comfortable, politely end the conversation.
- Be aware of group dynamics: Ensure that everyone has the option to engage or excuse themselves without pressure.
Keep alcohol consumption moderate
While it’s common to enjoy a drink at networking events, staying in control by moderating alcohol intake can set a positive tone. Overindulging can lead to behaviour that unintentionally makes others uncomfortable.
Practical Tips:
- Know your limits: Being moderate with alcohol can help you stay attentive to others’ comfort levels.
- Encourage a professional tone: Suggest non-alcoholic beverages if others feel uncomfortable with drinks in a professional setting.
Step up if you see unwanted behaviour
If you witness inappropriate or unwelcome behaviour, consider taking action by subtly intervening. This might mean redirecting a conversation, or if necessary, alerting event staff or organisers to ensure the situation is addressed.
Practical Tips:
- Intervene discreetly: Offer to introduce someone to others in the group or initiate a different conversation topic.
- Involve event staff if needed: If you notice persistent unwanted behaviour, notifying event organisers can help ensure safety.
Use inclusive language and avoid assumptions
Making an effort to use inclusive language and avoid stereotypes can create a welcoming and respectful atmosphere. Avoid comments that make assumptions about someone’s abilities, interests, or personal life based on gender.
Practical Tips:
- Ask questions, don’t assume: Instead of assuming someone’s role or experience, ask open-ended questions.
- Avoid gendered comments: Refrain from remarks that could imply gender biases, even unintentionally.
Offer your contact information professionally
If exchanging contact information, offer details relevant to professional networking rather than personal contact info. Keeping exchanges formal and focusing on LinkedIn or work emails helps maintain professional boundaries.
Practical Tips:
- Stick to LinkedIn or work email: These are universally seen as professional and less personal.
- Frame it as a networking follow-up: Emphasise that you’re offering contact details specifically for professional growth or future collaborations.
Be an active listener
Listening actively to what others say and responding respectfully without interrupting or talking over them creates a supportive environment where everyone feels heard.
Practical Tips:
- Avoid interruption: Give others the floor to complete their thoughts before responding.
- Engage authentically: Respond thoughtfully to what is shared, showing genuine interest in their insights.
Express appreciation, not appearance-related compliments
Compliments can sometimes be misconstrued in professional settings. Stick to expressions of appreciation specific to someone’s work or contributions rather than their appearance. Acknowledging expertise or accomplishments shows respect for their professionalism.
Practical Tips:
- Focus on skills and knowledge: Compliments like “Your insights on that project were really intriguing..” go a long way.
- Recognise contributions: Acknowledge ideas or perspectives they share during the event.
Final thoughts: Fostering a safe, respectful environment
Creating a welcoming networking space is a shared responsibility. By staying mindful of professional boundaries, reading social cues, and practising respectful allyship, men can contribute meaningfully to safer networking events for women. Fostering an atmosphere of respect and professionalism not only benefits women but also enriches the overall quality of professional connections and the opportunities that come from them.