How to apply inclusion training to your daily actions
Hustle Crew
Since we launched in 2016 we’ve helped ambitious people in tech and beyond take their careers to the next level.
In This Week’s Email
You have recently completed your company’s diversity and inclusion training and you are now thinking, ‘what next’?
How do I implement these great practices in my daily life as well as the workplace?
What does being an ally look like?
How can I be the change I want to see?
At times it can be hard to put all that you have learnt into practice, especially when the scenario you are in may not be the one you were taught during your training.
Although not always obvious, there are a number of ways we can implement the tools we learn to positively impact people we encounter on a daily basis.
Whether it’s interacting a stranger on a bus, a friend, a family member or a colleague — here are some practices you can use daily.?
Mindful communication
As the saying goes “Communication is key”. Often, if used inappropriately, our words can express wrong intentions or create misunderstandings.
For example: When addressing a group of friends or people you just meet, avoid using gender-specific words such as “guys”. It is important to note that we cannot assume one’s gender based on what we see. Unmindful communication can lead to misgendering, and upsetting those you are engaging with. When uncertain, you can use gender-neutral words when having a conversation.
If the space feels safe, asking what pronouns an individual prefers or identifies as can be a sign of care for the person you are talking to and a way to give them the space to feel comfortable with their identity. Remember every situation is different so don’t push if the situation isn’t right.?
Do not dismiss or disrespect other people’s contributions. Make sure to be welcoming and open during discussions regardless of whether or not you are in agreement. By using terms such as “I see your point”, “That’s a new perspective to me” or “I never thought about it that way” – you are creating an atmosphere for a free-flowing communicative conversation.
Challenge stereotypes
As you may have learnt in your training sessions, unconscious biases, prejudices, lack of information and teachings from our cultural and social beliefs impact the way we interact with others. We can combat some of these by taking the time to assess our initial thoughts of a person or situation and then question whether our beliefs are rooted in our biases or reality.
Ask yourself questions such as, “What are my expectations of this person or situation?”. “Are there any stereotypical or unconsciously biased aspects in these expectations?” If any of these assumptions are based on an individual’s identity e.g race or age – it is important to internally challenge them there and then.?
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Stay Curious
Becoming and remaining an ally is a process that evolves over time. As in every process, it is important to remain open and curious and look for chances to learn more. Remaining curious allows you to meet more like minded people and be in environments that challenge biases. As a result, you will be able to create environments where everyone can feel comfortable and valued.?
Be proactive in educating yourself
There are a plethora of books and online tools that you can use to educate yourself on whichever topic you are interested in. Take the time out to research and make yourself more knowledgeable on the various views and experiences of those who are not like you. It is imperative that you remember not to rely on people affected by the problem to educate you, but rather take responsibility for your growth as an ally.?
Remember, implementing any practice into your daily routine is not a linear process. It takes time and effort, however, the rewards from making these small changes will contribute to better relationships with those around you.
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Hustle Crew Academy
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We know that most leaders try to achieve inclusion and fail because it’s too challenging, it’s too complex and it’s too expensive to invest in solutions.
That’s why we created Hustle Crew Academy for leaders just like you who want to achieve inclusion. You can start your free trial now.
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