I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel— Maya Angelou, American poet, and civil rights activist.
The above quote is all the more relevant when you talk about demonstrating inclusion in the workplace. For leaders, illustrating inclusion is the best way to make many follow in their footsteps.
Here are five powerful ways leaders can demonstrate inclusion.
Show empathy: A warm and understanding leader can always pave the way for the rest to follow. When a leader displays compassion for his team members, ensuring solutions for the challenges they face, it illustrates the thought everyone must take when it comes to dealing with colleagues who need help and support.
Inclusive meetings: Ensure that the team meetings are inclusive, with everyone feeling welcomed to voice their ideas and thoughts. It doesn’t matter if the person is lower in the rung or has a small role. Allowing them to be part of the thought process and brainstorming encourages them to put in their best efforts.
Ask to know: Ever wondered how it is for an employee staying away from his family in another city to work in a new environment or the mindset of a new mother who is back to work after a break? Seeking out details of employee experiences at the workplace gives the required feedback to make changes to the working style, if needed.
Acknowledge and celebrate differences: A varied mix means different groups of people that like to be appreciated for who they are. Leaders should understand cultural nuances. Attempting to understand their roots will make them feel valued.
Address communication gaps: However big or grand the roadmap for projects is. Sometimes, it is about too much information or too little. After the project or work has been discussed ensure that the relevant details are conveyed. Address different groups in different ways. Ask for feedback on alternative ways to approach the project.
Team leaders play a significant role and are in a position to create an impact. Leaders shape work cultures and inspire more to follow suit by demonstrating inclusion in simple and powerful ways.
