How to Become an Inclusive Leader
From the entry-level employee in your organization to the c-suite of executives, it’s essential—especially in today’s environment—to ensure inclusion is engrained in the corporate culture. An inclusive environment is defined as an environment where differing perspectives and backgrounds are embraced to add value to, not detract from, an organization’s mission. It also involves mutual respect for one another.
To achieve the goal of inclusion within an organization, as with most corporate goals, it begins with strong leadership. Setting an expectation, encouraging an inclusive environment, and leading by example are essential. Below are a few tips that are good starting points:
Address Unconscious Bias
It is sometimes unfortunate that our differences are not readily visible. For example, how do you distinguish between a single mom, someone with a husband who works from home, and a wife in a traditional nuclear family? Are they evaluated for employment and promotions with equal representation?
In other instances, we deliberately make assumptions because we have become so accustomed to them. That older worker might not be considered for a promotion. This group of workers might be unfairly judged on how they would be able to keep up with the additional responsibility at that age or whether they are tech savvy enough.
Neither of these assumptions is universally true. Be mindful of situations where unconscious bias may occur and you will be more likely to make the right call.
Promote Inclusive Leadership
The members of an organization’s leadership team are its most prominent brand ambassadors. The visibility they offer is a powerful tool to encourage people of diverse backgrounds to join your organization. Ensure that each member brings tangible value to their role because of their unique background. This has dual value. First, it showcases the real value of diversity. And perhaps more importantly, it protects them from allegations of being token leaders, which can undermine their leadership.
Stay the Course
There is no place in the world where diversity is automatically welcomed. In fact, the U.S. remains such a beacon of hope for so many around the world because it is one of the most welcoming places on the planet. We see resistance to change here but that is only natural – change takes time. Do not be discouraged in the face of resistance. In fact, you must recognize that those who oppose your views represent diversity of thought, too.
Inclusiveness is not a destination but a journey. World events and societal changes have always influenced our perceptions of what constitutes “us” and “them” and they will continue to do so. Your job as a good leader is not just to put in place diversity initiatives but to instill in your entire team the same high ideals you hold dear.
Contact me if you have any questions about creating a sustainable plan to promote diversity and inclusion in your workplace.
