Commitment to Diversity

Diversity is about empowering people to be exactly who they were created to be. An organization should capitalize on the strengths of each employee, regardless of his or her heritage, age, race, gender – or any other difference that may be involved. The world is diverse and it benefits any organization to take advantage of those differences to be a better company. Leaders also have the responsibility to ensure that team members and peers embrace the organization’s policies regarding equal and fair treatment.

Why a Commitment to Diversity is Important to a Leader

Leaders do not work in a vacuum and must use the best talents of their team members. Also, if a leader is part of a larger team of peers, it is important that this leadership level demonstrates a commitment to diversity and uses it to their advantage. Leaders must also commit to enforcing a culture that is fair to all team members. They should not tolerate any behaviors that are demeaning or divisive to others on the team.

Benefits for the Leader

Leaders benefit from a diversity of ideas, different perspectives on problems, and unique perspectives that only a diverse group of people can provide. There is great satisfaction in putting together a diverse team that approaches a problem in a unique way and creates a solution that would not occur otherwise. A commitment to diversity is inherent in stellar teams and promotes a positive work culture.

Top 3 Coaches Recommendations for Diversity

1. Learn about your organization’s diversity-awareness programs and be proactive in your support. If you feel the organization needs diversity support programs, bring it to the attention of senior leadership.
2. What is your response when you see unequal treatment of individuals in your organization because of age, race, culture, or gender? How do you react? What steps could you take to create a culture that does not tolerate unequal respect and treatment?
3. Moving forward, speak of your work group as a team. Using team language builds team identity. Encourage others to think in terms of being part of a team.

Measure and Improve Your Commitment to Diversity Skills

Be determined to improve your commitment to diversity. Take the short commitment to diversity self-assessment on this page to identify where to improve your commitment to diversity. Then, get more coaches’ recommendations in Chapter 27 of The Leadership Compass: Mapping Your Leadership Direction to help you fine-tune your commitment to diversity.