SBA Research at Diversity Event Focused on Engaging Men as Allies
Our colleagues Gregor Roschitz (HR) and Jeanine Lefévre (Office of Equal Opportunities) participated in a high-level diversity event organized by CSR Circle, HR Circle, and the Diversity Think Tank in Vienna in mid-May. Both returned with valuable insights and practical new approaches that will help strengthen the ongoing diversity work at SBA Research.
The event addressed a question many organizations are currently facing: how can men be more effectively engaged in diversity initiatives? The topic attracted strong interest, reflected in a notably higher proportion of male participants compared to many other diversity-related events. This demonstrated a growing willingness among organizations and individuals to actively contribute to more inclusive workplace cultures.
© Martina Draper
Research shows that many men do not always feel addressed by diversity discussions, may underestimate existing inequalities, or rely on the idea of pure meritocracy, despite evidence showing that organizational realities are often more complex. At the same time, men frequently hold influential positions within organizations, making them important allies in driving sustainable cultural change.
In addition, the event explored how organizations can involve men in diversity processes constructively and authentically. Discussions focused on increasing accessibility, credibility, and motivation while creating environments in which men can engage openly and without fear of judgment or role-related pressure. Manuel Bräuhofer and Peter Rieder, Managing Directors of the Diversity Think Tank, shared insights into psychological dynamics, structural levers, and concrete strategies for action. Key topics included decision-making authority, norm-setting, network structures, psychological safety, and the importance of narratives in shaping organizational culture.
Gregor and Jeanine were particularly impressed by the practical orientation of the event and the openness of the discussions. They highlighted that the exchange provided inspiring impulses and actionable ideas that they intend to integrate into future diversity initiatives at SBA Research.
The event underscored that successful diversity work requires broad participation across organizations; and that actively engaging men as partners is an important step toward creating more inclusive and equitable workplaces.
Links
https://www.csr-circle.at/
https://www.hrcircle.at/
https://www.diversitythinktank.at/