Micro-Behaviors Matter

Inclusive Leadership: A Path to a More Inclusive Workplace Culture

Inclusive leadership is a leadership style that values and respects every team member’s unique perspectives and experiences, creating an environment where everyone feels welcome. Marissa Fernandez, who works with leaders to build inclusive workplaces, emphasizes the importance of inclusive leadership in fostering a positive work environment.

A Personal Experience with Inclusive Leadership

Fernandez, who started her career at Procter & Gamble 20 years ago, recalls her own experience as a second-generation Latina working in a corporate environment. She was part of a development program designed to support women of color and their white male bosses, which helped her feel more supported and equipped to work effectively. She also credits the Hispanic Employee Resource Group for providing a sense of community and a platform to discuss the nuances of her culture and how to leverage them as strengths.

The Value of Inclusive Leadership

Fernandez notes that leaders who prioritize inclusion see it as a competitive advantage. They regularly analyze data on hiring, promotions, and leadership representation, and are committed to improvement. Inclusive teams leverage their Employee Resource Groups, have relevant speakers and topics tailored to their culture, and encourage allies to attend and address non-inclusive behaviors promptly.

What Inclusive Leadership Means

When asked what inclusive leadership means, Fernandez often hears responses such as:

• Everyone’s voice is welcomed and valued
• Psychological safety, where people don’t fear the consequences of "getting it wrong"
• Being a good human
• High trust
• A feeling that we have each other’s backs

Obstacles to Inclusive Leadership

However, when asked what gets in the way of being inclusive 100% of the time, leaders often cite:

• Stress
• Speed
• Lack of mindfulness

Start with a Mindset Shift

Fernandez recommends starting with a mindset shift, focusing on micro-behaviors, and making inclusion practical. For example, asking oneself, "In the next meeting, how can I be a more inclusive leader?" can put one in a mindset that encourages inclusive behaviors.

Inclusion Baby Steps

James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, suggests that small changes are more likely to result in bigger changes. By starting with small actions, leaders can model inclusive behavior and demonstrate their commitment to inclusion. This can include behaviors such as adding emotional check-ins to meetings, rotating note-taking responsibilities, and ensuring active commitment to next steps.

Circle Back to What Matters

Inclusive leaders hold their teams accountable, recognizing that inclusion is a long-term process. By focusing on micro-behaviors and starting with small changes, leaders can foster a more inclusive workplace culture.

Conclusion

Inclusive leadership involves creating an environment where everyone’s voice is valued and respected, despite obstacles such as stress, speed, and lack of mindfulness. By focusing on micro-behaviors and starting with small changes, leaders can build a more inclusive workplace culture.

FAQs

• What is inclusive leadership?
  Inclusive leadership is a leadership style that values and respects every team member’s unique perspectives and experiences, creating an environment where everyone feels welcome.
• What are the benefits of inclusive leadership?
  Inclusive leadership can lead to increased employee engagement, retention, and performance, as well as a positive work environment.
• How can leaders start building an inclusive workplace culture?
  Start by focusing on micro-behaviors, making a mindset shift, and taking small steps towards inclusivity, such as adding emotional check-ins to meetings or rotating note-taking responsibilities.