Photo by Shane Rounce on Unsplash
What one valuable asset do you already have – and how are you making the most of it?
We hear so much about diversity these days, but what does it really mean?
For you as a leader, it’s one of the most important advantages you can utilise, already in your toolkit. For appreciating the diverse people you have around you provides means it’s not all about you.
It’s about a collaboration.
All you have to do, is first to appreciate the possibilities – and use it.
Here are 3️⃣ great reasons why creating an environment where diverse thoughts and perspectives are encouraged is of such value.
• 𝗕𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻-𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴
When diverse thoughts and perspectives are encouraged, the best leaders tap into a rich pool of ideas, leading to more comprehensive and innovative decisions. By challenging assumptions and encouraging critical thinking, you help identify your own blind spots too.
• 𝗕𝗿𝗼𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆
Diversity fosters creativity by bringing together individuals with unique backgrounds, experiences, and knowledge, which can lead to breakthrough innovations and fresh perspectives, which will set a team head and shoulders above others.
• 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝗺-𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴
Leadership which values diverse thoughts and perspectives creates an environment where individuals feel comfortable expressing their opinions and sharing their insights, leading to more effective problem-solving.
How to make this work for you, well, here are 3️⃣ ways a leader can take action to create their own local microculture, where diverse thoughts and perspectives are encouraged.
✅ 𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗶𝘁 𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲
By encouraging open communication, active listening, and non-judgmental feedback, individuals feel psychologically safer, and are more likely to express their thoughts and ideas without fear of criticism or reprisal.
✅ 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻
By open-mindedly considering gender, race, ethnicity, age, and background in recruitment, leaders can intentionally promote a strong team where different viewpoints are valued and respected.
✅ 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗧𝗼𝗴𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿
By encouraging input from team members with different perspectives, leaders can increase the likelihood of making informed and inclusive choices, as well as building team spirit and motivation within the team too.
Diversity is a really valuable tool for leaders to make the most of, adding to their repertoire of skills to differentiate them from the rest, delivering excellent results, as well as engaging those around them too.
You have to drive the conditions where you – and your people – will get the best from the richness of their differences.
#diversity #microculture #leadership #TheKindLeader #valuingdifference
