Active allyship — 3 messages to show your colleagues you care

As an active ally, you want to ensure that you are aware of what is happening in the world around you; how it may impact others and how you can actively support.

Here are three messages you can send to your colleagues today to show that you not only care but are ready to do the work.

1. As a colleague/friend

Hi [insert name],

I can’t imagine how you must be feeling regarding the events this weekend, but I want to reach out to let you know that I am here to listen, learn and support you where possible. Feel free to reach out to me at any time and let me know if there’s anything I can do to make this time easier for you.

Signed [insert your name]

2. As a leader

Dear company,

This weekend I found it difficult to switch off the news. The events around the world make me once again realise how privileged I am to be living in safety and health. I want to send my condolences to anyone who’s been personally affected by the devastation and reach out to say that my doors are open — meetings and time is available — if you want a chat or if there’s a way we as a business can help. I have been told that some may feel uneasy or uncomfortable — I want to let you know that our people come first — and so if you need some time away — please take this opportunity to do what’s best for you and your health. I would also encourage the rest of our colleagues to consider the events and show some support — be that in time, effort or conversation.

Signed, [insert your name]

3. As a decision-maker

Morning all,

I am unsure how to word this so please excuse any mistakes. The events globally this weekend have caused devastation and once again shown how not everyone has the safety we may. I want to reach out my hand to anyone who’s hurting and encourage you to look after yourself first — be that taking the day off, starting the conversation or booking in some time with me personally so I can listen. Mental, emotional and physical health is very important and so please don’t worry if you need some time to yourself — the team are here to help.

If there’s anything else I can do beyond this, do feel free to reach out.

Signed [insert your name]

P.s Please do get in touch if there’s anything I could add, should improve or change.

This blog contribution was made by Sonya Barlow.

Sonya Barlow is an award-winning entrepreneur, founder of the @LMFnetwork, diversity business coach and motivational speaker. Her efforts are focused on bridging the skills gap and creating inclusive cultures. . She has delivered two TEDx Talks and is acknowledged as an international keynote speaker. Sonya has had her articles published in Metro newspaper, Sifted EU and The Telegraph. Her businesses have partnered with global companies such as Babbel, Steady, Institute of Coding, GoCo Group, Barclays, Financial Times and BMW. In 2020, she was named as one of the Most Influential Women in Tech (Computerweekly), Winner of the Women in Software Changemakers (Makers and Google), Top 50 BAME Entrepreneurs (TechRound), Future Shaper 2020 (Marie Claire) and Forbes 30 Under 30 Shortlist runner up 2021. In 2021, Sonya became a published author sharing her debut handbook on entrepreneurship, business & becoming your own boss titled: Unprepared to Entrepreneur and was announced as the host of BBC Asian Network’s The Everyday Hustle.

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