Three Secrets to Foster Inclusion

In our increasingly diverse world, fostering inclusion is a necessity. One of the most effective ways culturally agile leaders can create an inclusive environment is by embracing the practice of perspective-taking. This means that each of your team members knows how to step into their colleagues’ proverbial shoes, see the world through their eyes, and understand their experiences and viewpoints. 

Does your team have a high level of perspective-taking? You can assess your team’s level of perspective-taking through Skiilify’s myGiide. 

Here are three secrets to foster inclusion through the secrets of perspective-taking:

1.  Model an Approach of Positive Intent: As a leader, demonstrate positive intent by approaching every interaction with the belief that your team members are doing their best and have good intentions. When conflicts or misunderstandings arise, encourage your team to first consider the possibility of a positive motive behind someone else’s actions. Reinforce this mindset in your team by recognizing and rewarding behaviors that assume the best in others, rather than jumping to negative conclusions.

2. Create a Safe Space for Open Dialogue: Create a non-judgmental and trusting environment, one where every member of your team feels safe to share their experiences, thoughts, and feelings. Hold meetings or informal check-ins regularly to give your team members a time to discuss their perspectives. By creating a time and space where everyone knows they can be comfortable expressing themselves, you build trust and allow team members to better understand each other's backgrounds and perspectives.

3. Encourage Active Listening:  Active listening is more than just hearing words; it's about fully engaging with the speaker and understanding the meaning behind their words. Train your team to listen with the intent to understand, not just to respond. Encourage them to be curious about each other, ask clarifying questions, paraphrase what they’ve heard, and acknowledge others' feelings and experiences. This practice helps colleagues' feel as though their perspectives are valid and valuable, even if they differ from their own.

Through myGiide, clients can assess their team-level perspective taking and learn the tips and practices to foster inclusion. These practices will not only promote inclusion, but strengthen the overall cohesion and effectiveness of the team. When people feel heard, understood, and valued, they are more likely to contribute their best work.