Building inclusive cultures in hybrid workforces

In our previous discussion, we explored the dawn of mass remote work and the crucial role empathy plays in navigating this new terrain. Today, let’s take a closer look at one of the pillars of a successful remote environment: inclusivity.

When we talk about an inclusive culture in a remote setting, we often picture a work environment where diversity is celebrated and every voice is valued. But in the absence of physical proximity, how do we ensure that no one feels left behind? It’s empathy.?

Empathy serves as the foundation. It allows us to understand the unique perspectives and challenges faced by team members from diverse backgrounds. It encourages us to ask questions, listen actively, and foster an environment where individuals feel comfortable sharing their insights.

In all of my talks and workshops, I discuss the Key Empathy Behaviors: the three-step process to make empathy actionable. Those behaviors are even more important now that we are more permanently spread out during our days. Inclusion thrives when empathy is at the foundation of all efforts.

Here are some practical steps to build an inclusive remote culture:

?? Encourage Participation

Create avenues for all team members to contribute in meetings and discussions. I love creating "hallway experiences" throughout your days. Put a few 10 minute segments on your calendar just for people to hop in and say hello. Managers and leaders should also set aside some "open-door time" where their direct reports can discuss topics and issues that are impacting their ability to perform their best. Participation encourages transparency.

?? Offer Flexibility

Understand that team members may be in different time zones or have varied responsibilities, and that - in this post-pandemic world - nothing is more valued than flexibility. Ninety-six percent of employees surveyed said that flexibility was important to them while only 39 percent of employers offered it to their teams. Listen to what your people want; they will tell you through their words or their behaviors.

?? Celebrate Diversity

Inclusivity is not a destination, but a journey.        

Initiate conversations and events that celebrate the diverse backgrounds of your team. This helps create a sense of belonging and it fosters the perspective we so desperately need to create great products for our wide-ranging customers.

?? Provide Support

Sixty one percent** of Human Resources professionals said they experienced a mental health episode in 2022, and that's up from 51 percent in 2021. And this goes beyond just HR; 43 percent of all employees surveyed feel that their employer doesn't talk about the importance of mental health. Offer resources and support for mental health and personal development. And managers should consider having open discussions about mental health with those who are willing and able.

?? Acknowledge Failures

You're going to get it wrong. Probably a bunch. Instead of sweeping it under the rug or making excuses, be open about it. Acknowledge where and how you've failed, and apologize for the misstep. And remember that is a great opportunity to discuss what your employees really need from you in this new hybrid workforce.

Inclusivity is not a destination but a journey. It requires consistent efforts, open conversations, and, above all, empathy. By intertwining empathy with our actions, we can create a remote culture that stands the test of time and distance.

Join me in our next article as we continue to explore the fascinating world of empathy in remote work.

**All statistics provided by Businessolver "2023 State of Empathy in the Workplace" and "Workplace Empathy Mental Health Report."

Sharon Steed is a keynote speaker, author and founder of Communilogue, an empathy consultancy. She teaches audiences the key empathy behaviors necessary to retain top talent as well as improve individual and team performance. A lifelong stutterer, Sharon uses her speech impediment to both teach what empathy is and to inspire audiences to engage in empathy actions daily.?Head to her website ?to learn more about her work.