Diversity encompasses more than just gender, race, ethnicity or sexual orientation. It means the multitude of experiences, perspectives, ideas, approaches and skills that make up the richest pool of talent we need in order to grow, innovate and outperform. Inclusion means cultivating a workplace where our talented people can flourish and do their best work ever, by bringing unique points of view, skill sets, personalities and passions to the table. Inclusion and diversity fuel success.
Most mission statements of service organizations include something about improving, differentiating, or providing superior services to their customers. They can only fulfill that mission by creating a culture of inclusion and harnessing the best thinking and ideas from everyone. A richly diverse, collaborative environment doesn't just happen; it requires the committed efforts of each individual.
What can leaders and employees do to build a culture of inclusion?
- Open up
Avoid instant judgments. Listen to and respect unique ideas. Realize that a new perspective might be a better one.
- Speak up
Be bold. Be courageous. Share your ideas, even when you have a different point of view.
- Lighten up
Be flexible when working with people with different styles and perspectives. Let go of preconceived notions about how things should be.
- Stand up
Respect everyone as an equal regardless of job level, background, appearance or communication style. Model respect and open-mindedness in every meeting and every conversation.
- Show up
Set an example. Get involved in diversity and inclusion programs and employee resource group events.
- Listen up
Encourage team members to share their ideas. Listen to and value their unique perspectives. Look for the benefits of being open for you and for an organization.
- Mix it up
Leverage the creativity and potential of everyone on your team. Invite people with a variety of personalities and passions to help you turn good ideas into great ones.
- Shake it up
Turn things upside down. Ask questions, engage in debate, think outside the box. See what happens when creativity is unleashed.
- Wisen up
Learn why a shift in your culture is critical to your business and what you can do to make a difference.
- Live it up
Celebrate individual and team successes. Find new and upbeat ways to recognize high performance and innovation.
Building a culture of inclusion is everyone's responsibility.
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