WTS-Boston's DEI In Motion: Inclusive Leadership
Inclusive leadership is defined as “an authentic leadership style that is focused on authenticity and establishing a culture of diversity and inclusion in the workplace.” [1] Some characteristics of an inclusive leader include a personal commitment to change, devotion of time and energy to nurture staff and inspire others, courage to stand up for their people even in the face of adversity, recognition of bias and the courage to address it, and knowledge or curiosity about other cultures. Inclusive leaders demonstrate compassion and prioritize authenticity to create a safe space for employees to express themselves and offer unique ideas. In today’s competitive hiring landscape, being an inclusive leader is an advantage in attracting and retaining a strong workforce that is motivated and driven through feeling heard and appreciated. [2]
According to a recent article in the Harvard Business Review, [3] a team led by an inclusive leader is more likely to be high performing and innovative [4], often by leveraging the diverse ideas offered by a team that feels valued [5]. Inclusive leadership can enhance employees’ psychological safety fostering a culture of open communication leading to efficient problem solving and productive output [6].
Becoming an inclusive leader doesn’t always come naturally, especially in a diverse society where a leader is exposed to various new challenges regularly. Taking intentional and proactive steps to strengthen relationships and build compassion is required [7]. Some examples are:
- Demonstrate your commitment to inclusion by attending Employee Resource Group or other affinity group meetings
- Listen without judgement
- Empower others by offering opportunities to staff who may have been overlooked in the past
- Ask questions about others’ experiences
- Admit when you make a mistake
- Include employees from different backgrounds in projects and meetings
- Pay attention to employees’ participation and make sure all team members are heard
- Deepen your self-awareness through recognizing how your behavior impacts others
Becoming an inclusive leader may be challenging, but it also makes business sense. Companies that practice inclusion generate up to 30 percent higher revenue and profitability, that is characterized by employees’ motivation and willingness to contribute [8]. Diversity and inclusion become more important to the transportation industry every year [9], and inclusive leadership is essential to strengthening DEI efforts. Generations just entering the workforce are increasingly diverse. Gen Z is the most ethnically diverse generation in the workplace, made up of 48% minorities [10], and future generations will most likely be “majority minority.” [11] Gen Z employees indicate that diversity and inclusion is a major factor in deciding where to work. [12]
Citations and Resources:
1 https://entrepreneurship.babson.edu/what-is-inclusive-leadership/
3 https://hbr.org/2019/03/why-inclusive-leaders-are-good-for-organizations-and-how-to-become-one
5 https://hbr.org/2020/03/the-key-to-inclusive-leadership
6 https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01803/full
9 https://www.transportation.gov/careers/diversity-and-inclusion
11 https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/aug/08/gen-z-americans-white-majority-study