Men play a central role in changing gender dynamics in the workforce, argues Reed, especially given their overwhelming numbers in the upper echelons of corporate America. Her interviews shed light on just how many of those men support the idea of gender equality but often remain silent when it comes to progressing the cause. “We are more afraid to say anything that might offend people,” one interviewee states. “Way too many topics are completely off-limits now.” Reed explores this "spiral of silence theory" in great detail, giving men a platform to express both their support of and discomfort with the topic of gender equity. She goes beyond general conversations to more specific issues as well, including how race, life events (such as pregnancy), and miscommunication can all have significant impacts on conversations between men and women in the workplace.
"When men don’t speak about gender, we miss… an invitation to engage the very people who are in positions to influence change” Reed writes, and while she makes it clear she understands the reasoning behind their silence, she also urges men to stop “perpetuating the status quo of inequity.” This is a bold, empathetic approach to a complex topic.
Takeaway: Bold, thoughtful perspective on the complexities of gender equity in the workplace.
Comparable Titles: Anneli Blundell’s When Men Lead Women, Joanne Lipman’s That’s What She Said.
Production grades
Cover: A
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: A
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A
“A powerful, research-based masterwork on understanding the concerns and questions of men. It is an actionable roadmap and playbook for empowering the pivotal men in the middle.”
“Reed weaves together layers of voices post #MeToo, including men’s fears, hesitations, and shifting mindsets. The fabric at this book’s core gives emotional support and hope for collaboration across the gender divide.”
