Are you an inclusive leader?

Teams with inclusive leaders are more likely to report to be high performing, more likely to say they make high-quality decisions, and more likely to report behaving collaboratively. To become an inclusive leader one should focus on the following six traits. (Harvard Business Review, 2019)

First, be visibly committed to diversity by challenging the status quo, holding others accountable, and making diversity & inclusion a personal priority.

Second, be modest about your capabilities, able to admit mistakes, and create the space for others to contribute.

Third, show awareness of any personal blind spots. 

Fourth, get curious about others! Demonstrate an open mindset, listen without judgment, and use empathy to understand those around you.

Next, be attentive to others’ cultures.

Finally, collaborate. You empower others by recognizing the diversity of thinking of your team. This ultimately aids team cohesion. 

Where to start?

Developing the traits of an inclusive leader takes time and support but a simple proactive way to begin is to start with feedback. Not just any feedback, ask it from people who are different from you. Engaging in feedback can help you to uncover blind spots, strengths, and areas of development. Furthermore, asking for feedback can indicate to others that diversity and inclusion are genuinely a priority to you. 

Become a better organization today as you invest in your leaders building a culture of inclusivity.  We look forward to creating better business with you.