The Leader’s Role In Creating An Inclusive Workplace

An inclusive workplace is one that values the individual and group differences within its workforce. It enables a company to embrace the diversity of backgrounds and perspectives of the employees, which in turn enables the organization to leverage their talent, innovation, creativity and contributions.

In an inclusive workplace, the employees feel involved, welcome and valued. Everyone has equal opportunities, and there is no discrimination on any basis.

Why Is It Important To Maintain An Inclusive Environment At Work?

According to research, an inclusive environment at work results in higher productivity and job satisfaction.

The benefits that come along with an inclusive work environment are:

1. Worker Commitment Increases

Employees who work in an inclusive environment have higher commitment towards their work as compared to employees who work in a non-inclusive work environment.

2.  A Sense Of Belonging

In an inclusive environment, workers experience a sense of belonging. No one feels left out and alienated. They feel connected to the organization at the macro level and their team at the micro level.  

3.  Decrease In Discrimination.

Research shows that in an inclusive environment, discrimination is minimal or non-existent. People treat each other equally.

4. Co-operation Among Workers

With an increase in commitment and sense of belonging, and a decrease in discrimination, the work atmosphere is positive and this results in better co-operation between  workers. Workers are encouraged to be tolerant and respectful of each other.

What Is Your Role As A Leader Of An Inclusive Workplace?

1. As a leader, you can attract talent from across the globe and meet diverse customer needs. This requires you to be open to a plethora of cultures, attitudes and needs.
2. You need to view every problem as a challenge that needs to be overcome. An inclusive environment means you will be dealing with a people from different walks of life. Dealing with their differences is difficult, but being able to do so is the quality of a good leader.
3. Inclusive leaders are an advocate for diversity—they proactively take up initiatives that make inclusion a priority.
4. Motivate. As a leader, your role to motivate your workers is extremely important. This can be achieved by diverse training, sensitization workshops and cultural events within the organization.
5. Make sure that all employees have a say in decision making and planning. Collaboration is the key when it comes to harnessing the potential of a diverse workforce.
6. Your job doesn’t end with you. You need to educate your employees to change their mindsets about diversity and inclusion to a more positive and tolerant one.

Creating an inclusive environment cannot be achieved by just one person. Every single worker in the organisation needs to be involved in this process and as an inclusive leader, this process starts with you.