Creating Inclusive Workplace Culture
“Diversity is being invited to the party;
inclusion is being asked to dance.” - Vernā Myers
That quote from former and phenomenal Netflix diversity chief Vernā Myers (now returning to her consulting practice - check it out!) is a genuinely straightforward way to explain the difference between diversity and inclusion to folks who are at the start of their journey. The work of diversity is increasing representation of members of marginalized communities. The work of inclusion is ensuring that each of those people - who have not had access to systems that were not built to work for them - feel valued, that they can belong, and they can succeed. Equity, of course, is how you get there. And that work now and always starts with leaders. As I write my second book on leadership, I'm struck by how hard it is for many leaders to explain why they are committing to diversity. Why do goals matter? What initiatives do we have in place? How do those benefit the company? What does it mean to center on those who are marginalized - and why? This is urgent, necessary work - now more than ever - but we need to have the language to explain it. How do you start? Watch the video below to learn my number one tip for inclusive leaders.
Do the work
This week, I commit to examining the diversity initiatives at my current company and to determine at least 2 ways I can get involved and contribute to creating a more inclusive workplace.
Spread the word
If you want to keep going
Authentic Diversity: How to Interrupt Bias and Build an Inclusive Workplace
This engaging, interactive program will shift your understanding on the challenges for inclusion in the workplace, and take up the call to action for every individual to build spaces of authentic diversity for all. What does diversity, equity, and inclusion mean? How do we make the business case for diversity? What is unconscious bias all about? How do our colleagues experience microaggressions? How do I stay aware of my biases? How do I interrupt them? And how can I build an inclusive workplace centered on belonging and authenticity for all?
