Episode D.034 Connecting Through Diversity

​Show Objectives
When companies invest in diversity and inclusion, they are in a better position to create more adaptive, effective teams and more likely to recognize diversity as a competitive advantage. Connecting through diversity is all about finding common ground. When we can celebrate our differences and connect on our commonality, teams can come together to challenge assumptions, change thinking, see better ways to do things, and remove prejudices. 

​Advantages of Team Diversity
Our unique differences can really make a difference in our teams, or organizations and our individual lives. Diverse teams are more innovative and creative (Episode D.033) —stronger at anticipating shifts in consumer needs and consumption patterns that make new products and services possible, potentially generating a competitive edge.

1. Diverse teams fill in the knowledge gap
2. Diverse teams fill in the perspective gap
3. Diverse teams fill in the experience gap

Barriers to Diversity
Diversity and Inclusion could lose momentum during and after any crisis, but especially during the uniqueness of the most recent pandemic and civil rights protests we are facing in the USA. Companies need to consciously and intentionally focus on advancing diversity and fostering inclusion.

Remote working conditions can also erode inclusion. Sending staff home to work in order to slow the spread of COVID-19 has the risk of reinforcing existing exclusive behavior and biases and undermining inclusive workplace cultures.

Other barriers to Diversity include:

1. Fear of Conflict
2. Insufficient Personal Network
3. Unwillingness to Deal with Prejudice
4. Arrogance
5. Personal Insecurities
6. Failing to be Inclusive

Move Forward into Diversity and Inclusion
To embrace diversity we must celebrate our differences in a way that looks for common ground. Most people want to be heard, to value one another, to work together, to be successful and to make a difference. Look for ways to connect where we are similar and make team contributions using our differences. This will allow us to accomplish great things.

1. Create a culture of sharing
2. Broaden your perspective on diversity
3. Provide solid leadership for diversity to be effective