As cultural dynamics change in an organization, it is important for leaders to continue their own development and training. As a training category, “Diversity and Inclusion” is an important set of both principles and skills, and covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Generational Differences
- Unconscious Bias
- Workplace Culture
- Cultural Differences
- Discrimination
Did you know that Pryor Learning has more than 30 learning modules on these topics? These segments provide real-time practical tips for demonstrating Diversity and Inclusion skills on the job. For example, the video “Overcoming Personal Barriers to Diversity” provides several suggestions for developing diversity skills.
Here are some key examples:
- Try to avoid right/wrong thinking – allow for multiple perspectives and ambiguity.
- Actively identify ways to meet people from different backgrounds.
- Reflect on the stereotypes that affect you – notice your physical and emotional reaction to people from different backgrounds and with different characteristics. Awareness goes a long way toward change.
- Identify specific language you could use to challenge your team when they judge people based on their characteristics.
- Think back on times when you have been excluded. What would have helped you in that moment? How can you use that reflection to help someone who may be feeling the same way? Identify one action you could take with one person as a result.
- Critically look at the media, asking yourself what perspectives have not been included or how different perspectives are being represented.
Diversity and Inclusion topics highlight organizational and institutional needs and action plans; and heighten personal self-awareness and interactions. This wide range of applicability makes it a “must include” area in your personal leadership development plan.
