I didn't know I needed this

I think what the biggest difference in this 'network' meeting was the rawness and truth of the speakers in telling stories that are not mainstream, yet are everywhere. It felt open, welcoming, easy, accepting in ways I don't normally feel (ProudHR). A big piece of this could be the critical nature of the conversation, no-one was in it for self-interest. The passion for the issues discussed to be heard, supported and paid attention to trumped any business target (although, ironically, paying attention to these things makes your business more profitable).

I've stood outside business networking meetings and pretended to be on the phone to avoid the male gaze or the disinterest when it's discovered that I am not an influential CEO and standing alone trying to look like I am fine (and I am GOOD at parties, and if I struggle....), and the bray of male voices talking over me. It rarely feels authentic, real or honest (three words that I know broadly mean the same here but I feel the need to EMPHASISE!). I've driven home with a stone in my heart after many an event over the years.

It seems to be the hetero-normative spaces of networking can be more heavily masked than this one. Which is ironic given the coding anyone not in the majority in an organisation is forced to do - whether black, female, trans, gay or possibly anyone a lot taller/shorter than everyone else.

Being a cis white woman 'privileged' by class, education and financial safety means I've never considered that I need my own spaces where I feel safe and supported with freedom to express myself. Recently I have discovered I do. I felt that at ProudHR. They welcome allies, so they welcomed me. I could feel it. Part of what being an ally is is knowing you'll never know what it's like to be the people you are alongside and that you'll get it wrong. This space is a place I can do that too.

Visit ProudHR to find out more and see when their events are next happening - I'm planning my Christmas party outfit already.