Inclusive means open to everyone. When a work environment is positive the team culture is also positive. As a manger it is imperative to create a space where all voices are welcome. Everyone needs to feel their differences of thought, perspective, value, are valued, appreciated, and heard.

I've been apart of inclusive and non-inclusive work environments. I have learned a lot in both experiences and prefer to work in an inclusive environment. Our former leadership team was not inclusive at all. The CLO talked about other members of our team. He shared inappropriate stories diminishing the accomplishments of certain team members. As a result, many of us became guarded and concerned about our jobs, so we didn't share honest feedback with him. Conversely, one of the best teams I've even been apart of was very inclusive. Our manager made us feel comfortable right away by spending time to get to know each of us. She shared her vision and strategy and took the necessary time to understand our experience and knowledge at the company. When it came to gathering feedback, she ensured everyone had an opportunity to share. She would pause and ask when she hadn't heard from everyone. One thing I learned is she always shared her opinion last. The only time she ever shared her thoughts first is when it concerned something controversial. She used supportive language which created safety for her team.

Creating an inclusive culture is intentional and requires steps from the manager and the employees. The manager/leader is responsible for setting and maintaining the example for the team to follow.

References:

Cabrera, E. F. (2012). The six essentials of workplace positivity. People & Strategy, 35(1), 50-60.

Deutser, B. (2018). Positive culture: The key to achieving your strategic goals: Great leaders build and drive great cultures. Leadership Excellence, 35(7), 5-6.

White, P. (2018). Neutralizing a negative workplace: Understanding and dealing with negativity at the office. Personal Excellence Essentials, 23(4), 19-20.

Question:

• Suggest other actions or steps a manager could take in promoting positive and inclusive work environments and explain why you think those would be effective.