“We cannot be afraid to try things differently. Ask questions and continue to learn about each other,” urged Dawn Kolb, VP – Quality Assurance and Release Management, Lumen, while delivering the opening keynote address at the 4th successive edition of The Power of I on the theme Diversity @ Dispersed, Digital, and Dynamic Workplace.
It was a delight to host her at this prestigious conference by Avtar that celebrates inclusive leadership who believes in the power of an individual. And in her keynote address, Dawn focused on the ways to foster the potential of diverse individuals.
In today’s post-covid interconnected world, the nature of work has evolved significantly. With advancements in technology and communication, workplaces have become dispersed, dynamic, and increasingly digital. These changes present both opportunities and challenges, particularly when it comes to fostering diversity and inclusion.
Dawn addressed the challenges faced by a leader during the team-building process in a dispersed work setting. Breaking communication barriers, promoting team activities, and encouraging the team to follow the LEARN strategy will enable this rich tapestry of perspectives to enhance decision-making processes, drive innovation, and boost overall organizational performance.
A few of the many strategies that Dawn mentioned during her address were-
Champion inclusive leadership: Leaders should actively seek diverse perspectives, challenge biases, and promote equitable opportunities for growth and advancement.
Foster virtual collaboration: Encourage active participation, networking and knowledge sharing to ensure cross-functional teamwork.
Encourage work-life integration: Recognize the unique challenges faced by remote workers and promote work-life integration.
She pointed out that building a sense of shared culture is also helpful in fostering diversity in a dispersed world. “We try to recognize all holidays celebrated within our teams and promote the sharing of pictures and stories of the celebration,” Dawn said.
In conclusion, Dawn remarked, “As a leader, try to skip levels to help build connectivity within your team members. In the end, it will all be about contributing to the future. And if you fall, get up, dust yourself off, take a moment to learn, and keep going.”
