Six Traits or Behaviors of Distinguished Inclusive Leaders
They articulate authentic commitment to diversity, challenge the status quo, hold others accountable and make diversity and inclusion a personal priority.
What is VISIBLE COMMITMENT?
"[This leader] has taken the time to learn the ropes (common words, idioms, customs, likes/dislikes) and the cultural pillars."
What is LEANRS ABOUT CULTURAL DIFFERENCES?
"[This leader] can have very set ideas on specific topics. Sometimes it is difficult to get an alternative view across..."
What is DISCOUNTS ALTERNATIVE VIEWS?
Seek feedback on whether you are perceived as inclusive, especially from people who are different from you. This will help you to see your blind spots, strengths, and development areas.
What is KNOW YOUR INCLUSIVE-LEADERSHIP SHADOW?
They are modest about capabilities, admit mistakes, and create the space for others to contribute.
"[This leader] leads a team of over 100 people and yet addresses every team member by name, knows the work stream that they support and the work that they do."
What is ACKNOWLEDGES TEAM MEMBERS AS INDIVIDUALS?
"[This leader] can be very direct and overpowering which limits the ability of those around him to contribute to meetings or participate in conversations."
What is OVERPOWERS OTHERS?
Tell a compelling and explicit narrative about why being inclusive is important to you personally and the business more broadly.
What is BE VISIBLE AND VOCAL?
They show awareness of personal blind spots as well as flaws in the system and work hard to ensure meritocracy.
What is AWARENESS OF BIAS?
"[This leader] will openly ask about information that she is not aware of. She demonstrates a humble unpretentious work manner..."
What is SHARES PERSONAL WEAKNESSES?
"Work is assigned to the same top performers, creating unsustainable workloads. [This leader] needs to give newer team members opportunities to prove themselves."
What is DISPLAYS FAVORITISM?
Look for signals that you are having a positive impact. Are people copying your role modeling? Is a more diverse group of people sharing ideas with you?
What is CHECK YOUR IMPACT?
They demonstrate an open mindset and deep curiosity about others, listen without judgment, and seek with empathy to understand those around them.
What is CURIOSITY ABOUT OTHERS?
Give people on the periphery of your network the chance to speak up, invite different people to the table, and catch up with a broader network.
What is DELIBERATELY SEEK OUT DIFFERENCE?
They are attentive to others' cultures and adapt as required.
What is CULTURAL INTELLIGENCE?