Empowering Allies: A Comprehensive Guide to Engaging Allies in Menopause Initiatives

Imagine a workplace where conversations about menopause are met with empathy, understanding, and unwavering support. You have the power to turn this from an aspirational ideal to a tangible goal that can be achieved through the active engagement of allies. In this article, we unveil the strategies to involve and empower allies in menopause initiatives, highlighting the pivotal role they play in driving transformation. Let’s work together to be part of a movement that champions inclusivity, empathy, and empowerment for all! 

STEP 1: Secure Executive Sponsorship

Having a dedicated executive sponsor can significantly amplify the impact of your menopause initiative. They can provide crucial resources, advocate for the cause, and help generate enthusiasm within the organisation.

Identify and Engage an Executive Sponsor: Seek out a leader within the organisation who is passionate about inclusivity and wellness. Present the benefits of supporting menopause initiatives and invite them to play an active role.

Leverage their Influence: Encourage the executive sponsor to actively participate in the campaign. Their involvement will set a powerful example and encourage others to get involved. This could be asking them to send the event invite to colleagues, doing the welcome and intro at a talk or training, or being part of a panel discussion. 

Highlight the Benefits:Get them to emphasise how supporting menopause initiatives aligns with the company’s values, promotes a healthy workplace, and enhances employee well-being.

STEP 2: Offer a Safe Space for Allies

A crucial aspect of any menopause initiative is providing a supportive and understanding environment for allies.

Run ‘Manopause’ Training: At See Her Thrive, we offer specialised training sessions for men and allies to educate them about menopause. This empowers them with the knowledge to be supportive and empathetic in a comfortable and supportive environment. Not convinced? Have a look at this: 

STEP 3: Invite Allies Explicitly

Making allies feel welcome and valued is essential for their active participation.

Inclusive Invitations: Craft event invitations that explicitly state that everyone is welcome. Use inclusive language that emphasises the importance of ally participation.

Emphasise Inclusivity: Reinforce the message that everyone’s voice and perspective are valuable in the conversation about menopause.

STEP 4: Make it Relevant and Appealing

To engage allies effectively, the conversation must resonate with their experiences and concerns. Here are some ways you can do that:

Address ‘Male Menopause’: Explore the concept of ‘male menopause’ and debunk any myths or misconceptions. Provide evidence-based information to help allies understand this topic.

Explore the Impact on Relationships: Discuss how menopause can influence relationships. Offer practical advice on how allies can offer support and navigate any challenges.

Share Actionable Tips: Provide practical strategies that allies can implement to provide meaningful support to people during menopause. 

Conclusion

Engaging allies in menopause initiatives requires a very deliberate and unapologatic approach! By creating a safe, informative, and inclusive space, we can foster a culture of understanding and support that benefits everyone in the workplace. Together, we can break down barriers and create a more inclusive environment for people experiencing menopause.

Want to learn more about menopause and expand your knowledge as an ally? Check out our Employer’s Guide to Menopause.