In today's fast-evolving workplaces, embracing diversity isn't just a nice-to-have—it's a must-do. Mounting evidence highlights the wide-ranging business advantages of diverse teams that incorporate a wide range of experiences and perspectives. To fully embrace the benefits of a diverse team, organisations must build and maintain a culture of inclusion. In today's blog Laura Barker, a Coaching Academy graduate and Career & Leadership Coach shares her insights on the topic of inclusivity in the workplace.
Inclusion is a sense of belonging, connection and community which engages employees, creating a safe, respectful and open environment where they feel valued and welcomed for who they are. This allows staff to be more productive, independent, creative and innovative at work. The numbers speak for themselves, McKinsey & Company’s “Diversity Wins” report found that companies with diverse leadership teams are 33% more profitable than their competitors.
Achieving the best results out of diverse talent goes beyond tick boxes and hiring practices; it is about empowering all members of the team to offer their ideas and understanding. That's where inclusive coaching comes in. Unlike policies and procedures that can feel rigid and depersonalised, coaching encourages reflection and sparks genuine behavioural change. Habits, beliefs and attitudes need to evolve to optimise inclusion. This is prompted through asking coaching questions that deepen understanding and support the continuous process of inclusion that is ever-changing and needing constant review and reflection.
One size doesn't fit all when it comes to inclusion. It is important to remember that the pathway that led to a successful culture of inclusion in one organisation, will not necessarily be the best approach for another business. Coaching allows individuals and organisations to reflect on what changes are needed within their own unique viewpoint or team. It provides the tools, support and awareness needed to facilitate understanding the strategies and behaviours that will align organisational goals and objectives with inclusivity. Through one-to-one sessions, group workshops and peer to peer coaching, individuals can explore any prejudices, learn how to communicate more effectively and problem-solve as any conflict arises.
Inclusive leadership is key to unlocking the full potential of diversity. Often leaders are aware of the benefits of diversity, but struggle to find ways to create a truly inclusive culture. Executive coaching provides a safe and confidential space to allow them to explore this, bringing their conscious and unconscious biases to the forefront. By prompting leaders to re-evaluate existing practices and organisational dynamics, coaching can help broaden their perspectives and re-think their approach to managing teams. By holding leaders accountable and promoting fairness, coaching helps create a culture where everyone can thrive.
For inclusivity to be fully optimised and successful it is important to involve and integrate everyone, it is not just about leaders, managers or key advocates, but demands focus and action at every level. It is important to encourage honest and non-judgmental discussions throughout the organisation. Coaching conversations help to distil the concept of diversity within employees so that it becomes a learned behaviour, helping everyone to work towards a common goal. For deeper impact, organisations can offer coaching programmes to address the unique needs of underrepresented individuals and demonstrate their commitment to supporting all employees. This coaching support can increase overall engagement and satisfaction levels, helping in the retention of a diverse range of talent.
Promoting diversity and inclusion is about fostering a mindset of continuous learning and growth. By embracing coaching, organisations can create a more inclusive culture that drives success for everyone involved.
If you are interested in learning more about Corporate & Executive coaching, then please join us on our free Introduction to Life Coaching webinar, along with our Insight into Corporate and Executive Coaching webinar - please see our coaching training calendar to book your place!
About Author:
Laura Barker is a Career and Leadership Coach with a passion for diversity and inclusion. She gained diplomas in Personal Performance Coaching and Corporate and Executive Coaching from The Coaching Academy and now works with organisations to create inclusive workplace cultures. As an Associate Coach for Genius Within and MTPT Project, Laura advocates for neurodiversity in the workplace and supports parents returning to work. She is Head of Talent Development for Talentheads, where she promotes continuous learning and inclusivity within a broad range of organisations as their Internal Learning Development and Coaching function.
The Coaching Academy was established in 1999, and is now the world's largest coaching school.
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