Why I Value Working with Men

The Benefits of Gender Diversity in Business

In a recent conversation, I jokingly said, "Maybe I should only work with men." The comment was light-hearted, but it led me to a serious reflection.

A few years ago, in a mastermind group I was asked, "Laura, since most of your clients are women, why not focus exclusively on them?" My immediate answer was "No."

Here’s why: While I deeply value my connections with women and passionately support gender equality, there’s a unique spark I find in working with men. The camaraderie and dynamics are different and the exchange of ideas invigorating.

This isn’t about favouring one gender over the other, but about valuing and recognizing what each individual brings to the table.  

There is an increasing number of businesses and communities dedicated solely to serving women – this approach is powerful and necessary. It fosters deep connection, collaboration and amplifies feminine energy…and I’ve benefited greatly from being a part of amazing women only events and communities.

AND, that doesn’t mean my business needs to fall into this category.

You might wonder – 'Laura, does this mean you endorse the 'bro culture'? Definitely not. While men get a bad rap, toxic or exclusionary behaviours are not gender exclusive.

As a mother of boys, my goal is to cultivate a belief in equality and a healthy understanding of masculinity's place in society – and it does have a place. It's important to recognize and value the positive aspects of masculinity that many men embody. I hope to guide my sons towards embracing their masculinity and infuse it with love, empathy and respect.

If women and men do not work together, how will we forge an environment where taking direction regardless of gender is normalized? If we avoid cross-gender collaboration, we miss out on enriching our collective experience.

Like when a male client recently said to me, "Laura - we are looking to you on this. You're the expert." It reflects mutual respect, and an appreciation for expertise that knows no gender boundaries.

It doesn’t benefit anyone, if we leave men out of the conversation.

I value the men I work – especially the big-hearted ambitious ones. They push me to think and dream bigger. Their perspective gives me new ideas to consider, and I love the vibrant energy exchange that happens when we collaborate. It's this kind of interaction that I find both valuable and energizing.

This is about inclusion, not exclusion.

Creating spaces that empower women while also valuing positive men is crucial. It's about building bridges, not walls, and recognizing that diversity in thought leads to better outcomes for all.  

I hope to contribute to a narrative that appreciates the strengths that both men and women bring to the table, creating a legacy of mutual success.

I welcome your thoughts and experiences on this topic. Let's continue the conversation!