In a dynamic collaboration with the French Industrial Group, Avtar’s Enable Team embarked on a mission to create meaningful impact. The minutes of an insightful discussion paved the way for a tailored Non-Conscious Bias sensitization module.
The anticipated participants included N-2 level leaders-50 individuals per session. The leaders spanned diverse roles, from Plant Heads and Function Heads to HR Team Members, all positioned between DGM to VP levels. Notably dispersed across India, this group also consisted of HR Team Members serving as heads of Centers of Excellence, all of whom had participated in the surveys.
The sessions aimed to cater to the participants’ needs and addressed managers grappling with diversity, particularly examining its dimensions as both a business and talent imperative for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Themes of biases and stereotypes, allyship, and inclusive leadership were to be comprehensively covered. The focus was directed towards Gender and LGBTQ+ aspects, with a separate session planned for PwD inclusion.
Three important scenarios were discussed. Scenario 1 was about managing targets within a quality-focused company, presenting a formidable challenge. Striking a balance between rigorous targets and employee well-being becomes particularly complex when there are diverse applicants. Scenario 2 underscored the difficulty of providing feedback to women employees. The manager’s apprehension about navigating emotional responses and questions underlined the importance of delivering feedback in a constructive and considerate manner. In Scenario 3, a case was presented, where a seasoned professional confronted feedback that challenged their leadership style.
The session had a concise debrief of 30 minutes followed by a Q&A session, and the core session. The strategies adopted to ensure engagement consisted of real-life industrial scenarios and sales cases forming the basis for contextual discussions.
In response to the organization’s unique structure, Avtar proposed the customization of a similar session for their Numeric Business Unit in Chennai. This envisioned session would align with the numeric BU’s dynamics and requirements, tailored to its distinct assessment results.
The Non-Conscious Bias sensitization module is a testament to fostering a more inclusive workplace environment. By translating the intricate details of the discussion into a comprehensive solution, this initiative will raise awareness and empower leaders to embrace diversity in all its dimensions.