Creating an Inclusive Workplace: It Starts with You

By making small changes in our words and actions, we can create a workplace that is truly inclusive for all. Let’s look at what it means to be an inclusive workplace, and some ways we can make our workplaces more inclusive for everyone.

Creating an inclusive workplace means empowering employees to bring their authentic selves to work. It’s about providing support and opportunities for employees to learn and grow. And it’s about creating a culture of respect where everyone feels like they belong.

An inclusive workplace is one where employees feel they have a choice in how they work and can be their own self. It’s a place where people feel supported, respected, and valued.

Employees feel they can openly share their ideas, ask for help when they need it, and take time off when they need to recharge. In an inclusive workplace, employees feel like they are part of a team that is working towards a common goal.

Mental health is an important part of inclusion. When employees feel supported in their mental health, they are more likely to be productive and engaged at work.

Creating a culture of mental health awareness starts with leaders who are willing to have open conversations about mental health, provide resources and support, and create policies that empower employees to take time off when they need it. Leaders also need to be role models by taking care of their own mental health.

When done right, inclusion never feels like something that needs to be “checked off the list.” Instead, it’s an integral part of the company culture.

By creating an inclusive workplace, organisations can tap into the power of diversity to build a more innovative, productive, and successful business.

One of the most important things to avoid when trying to be more inclusive in the workplace is making assumptions about someone’s background or experience. For example, don’t assume that someone is familiar with a certain concept or that they have the same level of knowledge as you do.

Instead, take the time to explain things clearly and patiently. What may be easy for you to understand may be more difficult for someone else. Be patient and understanding, and always try to see things from another person’s perspective.

Another key point to remember is that not everyone experiences the world in the same way. What might be a small issue for you could be a big deal for someone else. Try to be understanding and respectful of everyone’s individual experiences.

We mustn’t make assumptions about someone’s identity. For example, don’t assume that someone is straight, cisgender, or able-bodied. It’s important to create an inclusive environment for everyone, regardless of how they identify.

By being respectful and understanding of everyone’s individual experiences, you can create a workplace where everyone feels welcome.

Finally, avoid using language that excludes or alienates people. This includes words or phrases that are offensive, sexist, racist, or homophobic. Even seemingly innocent terms can reinforce negative stereotypes.

When in doubt, avoid using terms that might be offensive to someone. Instead, opt for language that is inclusive and respectful of everyone.

One of the most common challenges employees face when trying to create an inclusive workplace is resistance from others. This can come in the form of colleagues who are resistant to change or who don’t see the need for inclusion.

It can also come from senior leadership that isn’t supportive of inclusive initiatives.

When facing resistance, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. There are others who share your commitment to inclusion.

You can build a coalition of like-minded employees to create change. By working together, you can make progress towards your goal of creating an inclusive workplace.

Another common challenge is a lack of understanding of what inclusion actually means. This can make it difficult to know where to start or what steps to take. There are a number of resources available that can help with this.

The key is to start small and build on your progress. Every step you take towards inclusion is a step in the right direction.

Any workplace can become more inclusive by taking some intentional steps. Small businesses have the advantage of being nimble and able to adapt quickly. Here are some things you can do

• empower employees at all levels to take the initiative in creating an inclusive environment
• provide learning opportunities on inclusion for all employees
• support employee resource groups
• give employees a choice in how they work, including when and where
• coach and mentor employees on inclusion

By creating an inclusive environment, you will not only empower your employees, but you will also attract top talent and create a competitive advantage. Employees want to work for companies that value diversity and inclusion.

When you create an inclusive environment, you send a message that everyone is welcome, valued, and respected. You empower your employees to do their best work and reach their full potential.

You also build a foundation for innovation and creativity. Inclusion isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s also good for business.

a) Use language that includes everyone.

When you’re talking with your co-workers, be mindful of the language you’re using. For example, instead of saying “ladies and gentlemen,” try using gender-neutral terms like “folks,” “everyone,” or “y’all.” Avoid making assumptions about people’s pronouns by asking them what they prefer. When you use language that includes everyone, you create a workplace where everyone feels welcome and respected.

b) Be an active listener.

In order to create an inclusive workplace, we need to listen to and learn from those who experience discrimination first-hand. When someone shares their experience with you, believe them and take their words to heart. If you’re not sure how to be an active listener, here are some tips:

• Really pay attention when the person is speaking. Put away your phone, make eye contact, and resist the temptation to jump in and offer solutions too quickly.
• Seek first to understand, then to be understood. Before responding, take a moment to digest what the person has said and ensure that you understand their perspective
• Ask questions! If you don’t understand something, or if you want to know more about someone’s experience, ask them about it. Just be sure to avoid questions that could potentially be harmful or intrusive (e.g., “What are your pronouns?” or “How did that make you feel?”)
• Reflect back on what you’ve heard. This helps clarify things for both parties and shows that you’re really listening. For example, you might say something like, “I’m sorry that happened to you. I can see why it would be so frustrating/upsetting/ etc.”
• Avoid getting defensive. It can be tempting to want to defend ourselves or our actions when we feel like we’re being accused of bias, but it’s important to resist this urge in order to truly listen to what the other person is saying.

By taking the time to really listen and understand others’ experiences, we can start making positive changes in our workplace—changes that will benefit everyone involved.

Working together is the key to making any workplace more inclusive. When everyone shares a commitment to inclusion, it becomes easier to create an inclusive environment.

This can start with something as simple as having open and honest conversations about inclusion. By talking about the issue, you can raise awareness and understanding of what inclusion means.

From there, you can start taking concrete steps to make your workplace more inclusive. This can involve things like creating diverse teams, increasing visibility for underrepresented groups, and offering training on unconscious bias.

The important thing is to keep moving forward. Every step you take towards inclusion is a step in the right direction.

In order to create a more inclusive workplace, it takes the effort of everyone involved. Diversity and inclusion are everyone’s responsibility.

We all have a role to play in making our workplaces more inclusive. Businesses can make strides towards inclusion by empowering employees at all levels, providing learning opportunities, supporting employee resource groups, and giving employees a choice in how they work.

One final note – it’s also important to celebrate your successes. When you make progress towards inclusion, take a moment to celebrate. This will help motivate everyone to keep up the good work.

Remember, change takes time. But by working together, we can create workplaces that are inclusive for everyone.