Recent events have caused many companies to reignite their commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. Numerous CEOs have put out position statements and many companies have donated to organizations that support equity and inclusion. This is all good stuff, but the real question is what are they going to do to impact real change in their own organization to foster a workplace where everyone thrives?
Companies large and small employ millions of people and have the opportunity to showcase fairness, equity and inclusion in their daily operations. Leaders are the pivot point. A recent report by Deloitte entitled The Diversity and Inclusion Revolution: Eight Powerful Truths highlighted the role of leaders in creating an inclusive work environment. It stated “leaders set the standard and culture to assure that all team members feel they are treated respectfully and fairly, are valued and sense that they belong, and are confident and inspired.”
“The behaviors of leaders (be they senior executives or managers) can drive up to 70 percentage points of difference between the proportion of employees who feel highly included and the proportion of those who do not. This effect is even stronger for minority group members. Furthermore, an increase in individuals’ feelings of inclusion translates into an increase in perceived team performance (+17 percent), decision-making quality (+20 percent), and collaboration (+29 percent) Pause for a second to let those numbers sink in. This phenomenal difference reflects the power of a leader’s shadow.”
The business, ethical and social case for workplace inclusion is strong as is the case for fairness, respect, equity and 2-way dialogue. Now it’s up to each company and their CEO to take action and provide their leaders with the skills and tools they need to facilitate a work environment where everyone feels respected, valued and heard. It’s time.
Stop Talking. Start Doing.
Need help getting started? Everyday Excellence Leadership’s newest on-site workshop Get FIRED Up focuses on 5 critical factors (Fairness, Inclusion, Respect, Equity, Dialogue) and empowers leaders with 5 Tools that help bring objectivity and parity to everyday decisions and work practices. Visit our website at Everyday Excellence Leadership to learn more.