Leading with Courage, Vulnerability and Authenticity: Advocating for Diversity in the Workplace

Overview of the Talk and Its Relevance in the Workplace

In today's ever-changing world, it is becoming increasingly important to create inclusive environments that value different perspectives and experiences. But what does it mean to truly be an advocate for these values, and how can we implement them in our own workplaces? In this talk - see full recording below - we explored the topic of leading with courage vulnerability, and authenticity while advocating for diversity and equity in the workplace.

When faced with adversity, inequality, micro aggression, and discrimination, how do we effectively lead with courage and authenticity, while also promoting diversity and equity?

Let's dive in and explore the topic of leading with courage vulnerability and authenticity while advocating for diversity and equity in the workplace.

Leading with courage

Charging for diversity and equity against the very grain of our industry takes courage.

• It takes courage to acknowledge and address your own biases and preconceptions that you might have, in order to create an environment where everyone feels valued and respected, regardless of their differences.
• It takes courage to speak against the establishment and go against the status quo.?
• It takes courage to point out inequality and unfairness in hiring and compensation practices. It takes courage to take a look inwards and become aware of our own innate biases that our family of origin or our culture forced upon us.?

Leading with courage and authenticity means understanding the importance of being true to yourself and your values, even when it's difficult or uncomfortable.

It means being honest with yourself and others about your strengths, weaknesses, and limitations, in order to inspire others to do the same, creating a culture of honesty and openness that fosters trust and collaboration.

Understanding the Importance of Vulnerability

One of the biggest challenges to leading with courage and authenticity is overcoming the fear of vulnerability, because we often think that vulnerability is a weakness when in reality, it is a source of strength.

By being vulnerable, we open ourselves up to new experiences, ideas, and perspectives.

We show others that it's okay to make mistakes and ask for help, and we create a culture of trust and authenticity.

Understanding the Importance of Authenticity

Advocating for diversity also means understanding the importance of being authentic, and true to yourself and your values, even when it's difficult or uncomfortable.

Being authentic means speaking up and addressing behavior in a professional and assertive manner.

By taking action and standing up for yourself and your values, you demonstrate courage and authenticity and get to set an example for others in the workplace. You also help to create a more inclusive and respectful workplace culture, where everyone feels valued and respected.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) have become something of a buzzword lately.

Most people agree that diversity in the workplace is a good thing.

The problem, however, is getting there. Bias is a major obstacle to diversity, but it can be unlearned. Humans are naturally prone to judging people according to clichés rather than their actual merits. These biases come in a number of different forms.

Takeaway

By being true to ourselves and our values, taking risks, admitting our limitations, and embracing vulnerability, we can inspire others to do the same. This creates a culture of trust and collaboration that fosters innovation and growth.

TUNE INTO THE FULL RECORDING BY?CLICKING HERE