Sharing some leadership reflections on creating inclusive cultures, from a workshop I delivered recently. I’m always glad when these sessions spark new insights around such an important topic. Which one resonates with you?
1. Meaningful inclusion is about small day-to-day habits rather than big check-the-box actions. Micro-behaviors trump townhall statements.
2. Inviting people to the table without integrating their unique strengths and empowering them to contribute is useless. Clarify the vision, set expectations, and point them to opportunities to use their voice.
3. Inclusion is not about one moment in time e.g. asking for someone’s perspective in a team meeting; it covers all the micro steps that build up to that moment e.g. feeling safe to speak up.
4. Inclusive leaders acknowledge each individual 1:1, not only in a group setting. Ultimately, people’s perception of inclusion revolves around one question: do you see me as an individual or as an extension of the team?
5. Fostering a sense of belonging requires team effort – ensuring all teammates recognize, welcome and value each other’s unique strengths, creating a collaborative space where everybody can contribute.
6. Inclusion is not rooted in scarcity, but in abundance. Our unique strengths are not lessened when we acknowledge others’. They are amplified, providing us with new learning opportunities.
7. Sponsoring others’ growth through prompt and actionable feedback catalyzes inclusion. Leaving people out due to their perceived weakness will only widen the inclusion gap.
8. Inclusive leadership is a function of what you say, what you do and what you tolerate. Microaggressions can have a macro effect and should always be addressed – either on the spot or later.
9. Being inclusive means creating a space which can hold the experiences of those around us, rather than our own judgements or assumptions about them. Genuine curiosity is key.
10. Interpersonal inclusion always starts with self-inclusion: knowing, accepting and expressing one’s whole self. What we practice inward, we reflect outward.
* If you want me to deliver a workshop on inclusive leadership for your team, feel free to get in touch.
Habit of Growth 