Today’s workplace needs equality. These days more people are aware of the relevance of inclusivity in everyday life. This facet of society should reflect in your workplace as well. The goal is to make everyone feel welcome and included. You should also keep in mind that this inclusivity isn’t all about altruism. It is a stone-cold fact that an inclusive work environment will allow you to attract and retain the best talent. It will enhance the morale of your workforce and boost productivity, efficiency, and quality.
Michael Osland on inclusive work culture
As a business leader, you should always try to create an inclusive work environment. However, it is harder said than done. So, here are a few basic tips for you to get you started.
Opting for buy-in from senior management
If you are looking for the best place that can help shape the culture and ethos of the entire organization, then start up top. The senior management is where the inclusive culture should start from and spread through the whole organization and each department. It is vital to understand that this inclusive culture shouldn’t be “in-name-only,” and all members should support the initiative.
As far as inclusive work culture is concerned, supportive senior management will allow the middle and lower management to develop along the same lines. Instead of hypocritical lip service, supportive senior management will ensure complete harmony across every department. According to Michael Osland, if you plan on opting for a total buy-in from senior management, you will need to do a bit of learning and attend educational lectures about the benefits of inclusive work culture.
Provisions for anonymous communication
Keep in mind that behaviors against the inclusive policy shouldn’t go unnoticed and unpunished. However, you need to provide anonymous communications and platforms so that anyone affected can voice their complaints without the fear of retribution. It is vital to remember that many individuals do feel shy to speak up. Providing a platform for anonymous communication will provide a voice to the silent minority.
Schedule topical meetings
Daily meetings with employees and senior management regarding inclusivity are crucial for building workplace camaraderie. The more people speak up and discourse, the better it is for the awareness of the entire program. Keep in mind to speak with your teams about your future initiatives, as well as the progress. Make sure to highlight how an inclusive work environment has helped the company achieve its goals and targets.
An inclusion task force
It is vital to understand that inclusivity is a serious issue, and it is only through personal examples we can help others learn. Workplace inclusivity has to be a drive. So it is critical to developing a task force that will assist in the maintenance of the inclusion policies and workforce education. Always encourage the task force to develop newer ideas for awareness campaigns through posters and other materials.
Keep in mind these simple tips to encourage and build a genuinely inclusive workplace environment.
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