By Ismael Cala
27 Jul 2024, 09:30 AM EDT
What does it take for employees to feel truly included and belonging in their workplace? This disconnect was revealed in a global survey launched by Accenture. The study found that while 68% of leaders believed they were creating empowering environments, only 36% of employees shared that view.
Bridging this gap between what leaders believe is happening and what employees actually do is one of the biggest challenges in leadership today, as the onus is clearly on those who lead organizations to foster a culture where everyone can thrive and embrace diverse perspectives.
Some companies approach inclusion and diversity with the same discipline and rigor as any other business priority. They set goals, communicate them publicly, and collect data to continuously improve and hold their leaders accountable.
Likewise, all employees are expected to take on this responsibility: to embrace the equality agenda and make it part of their job to speak up and act regularly. From board members to new employees, everyone is responsible for creating a work environment where people can be their authentic selves.
Recognizing unconscious biases is an essential step in creating an inclusive culture. Progress happens when self-awareness leads to positive, impactful actions. An effective way to combat these biases is to create safe spaces where people can share their experiences and feel seen and heard. Some initiatives facilitate open and honest discussions about difficult topics to build trust and increase transparency.
We are all at different levels of awareness about our own biases, so personal experiences can serve as teachable moments. Your perceptions of yourself significantly influence how you present yourself and perform at work. Plus, it’s important to lift others up as you move forward.
It’s critical that everyone knows they belong in every space and place. Every day, there’s an opportunity to build a community where people feel like they belong. A series of small, smart, intentional choices can make a big difference.
Collaboration is essential and focusing on what matters most, which is putting people first, is key to moving towards an inclusive and belonging culture.
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