Inclusive Leadership: What is the Impact?

There are many different leadership styles and ways that people respond best in workplace environments. It’s no secret that workplace cultures and values influence how colleagues engage with one another and experience their day-to-day interactions.

As an individual in a leadership role, it is vital to understand that the people surrounding you are indeed, people. They have lives, quirks, concerns, dreams, partners, children, insecurities, and goals of their own. Speak to everyone; show them and remind them of how they add value to your organization. It is not your responsibility to be everything to your colleagues, but it is your responsibility to understand their existence as a person and not just an employee.

Around 30 million, or 1 in 9 U.S. workers experience their workplace as toxic according to research conducted by MIT School of Management. Most of us have experienced this in one way or another, so as a leader, it is important to consistently evaluate the brand of your team or organization and the norms and values that define your culture.

Here are some reminders of inclusive leadership qualities:

Respect and Dignity: Inclusive leaders value the inherent worth of every individual regardless of their background or identity. They also have empathy and compassion towards others and show a genuine concern for the well-being of others.

Transparency and Accountability: Inclusive leaders foster a culture that includes clear communication and a willingness to hold themselves and others accountable to established standards. Equally, they seek feedback and inspire trust and confidence in others. 

Here are a couple of questions to think about as you continue to grow as a leader:

Am I consistently evolving as the world continues to change?

Am I proactively advocating for equitable opportunities within my organization?

Wherever you are on your leadership journey, keep growing and finding ways to be the teammate you would want on your own team.