TIME FOR LEADERSHIP

By Astrid R?nning Skaugseth - CEO of Social Human Equity (SHE) Conference

As public discourse grows more divisive and exclusionary, both in society and the workplace, the question remains:

How will people know what?you?stand for?

MORE EXCLUSION

The number of authoritarian regimes is rising, protectionism is increasing, and according to The Economist’s?Democracy Index, global democratic values have declined to their lowest level since its inception in 2006.

Loud and powerful, the newly elected president and his partners have taken the global stage. Almost as an entrance fee to the front row of his inauguration, several major tech companies have rolled back their DEI programs—initiatives meant to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. Most recently, Trump went as far as suggesting that diversity and inclusion—without any basis or explanation—were somehow to blame for the tragic plane crash in Washington, D.C., even before the families of the victims had been informed.

We find ourselves in a new, yet familiar reality—one where divisive rhetoric, rooted in an "us versus them" mentality, is delivered with increasing self-righteousness, harsher language, and greater reach.

When confronted with views we oppose, we have a choice: to grumble quietly or to stand up for what we know is right—and fair. At all times, but especially now, leadership must be heard and felt.

NORWAY MUST LEAD THE WAY

Fortunately, things are better in Norway, but despite consensus, ambition, and strengthened legislation, change is still happening too slowly. We need more diversity and inclusion in the workplace, yet too many remain excluded. One in five people of working age is out of the labor market—at the same time, businesses are crying out for skilled workers.

We cannot afford this level of exclusion, nor can we afford to lose the power of judgement and competitive edge that diversity provides.

In easier times, we might have been able to take a backseat and still arrive at roughly the right destination. Today, it is clear that we must take the wheel ourselves—both in society and in the workplace—to get where we want to go.

The time to demonstrate leadership is now.

LEADERS MUST LEAD

It starts with?you—with how you use your influence, your voice, and your actions to make workplaces and society more inclusive and fair. In doing so, you shape the values and perspectives of the people you empower to join the effort.

Bishop Mariann Budde offered hope and inspiration when she urged the president to show compassion toward minorities now fearing for their safety. The fact that her unifying message was met with such hostility from the president himself highlights what is ultimately at stake: the erosion of fundamental human values.

DIVERSITY SHOULD BE A GIVEN

There is immense talent and valuable perspectives among those who are denied opportunities simply because they are perceived as?different. At a time when competitiveness and sound decision-making are more critical than ever for Norwegian businesses, ensuring that everyone is seen and given a chance to contribute is both a moral and a business imperative.

Diversity in leadership is essential to fostering the innovation that both Norway—and the world—so desperately need.

Perhaps the?lack?of diverse leadership and understanding of different perspectives is part of why we find ourselves in this situation in the first place?

?We’ll have to deal with one challenge at a time and act where we can make an immediate and direct difference.

As a leader—whether in the private or public sector—you can put?people?ahead of business targets, precisely?to?drive better results. For your company, for society, and for the future.

Now is the time to lead in building a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive working world.

We?know?what is right—and what is fair....

This article was also published in E24, Norway’s largest business newspaper – read it in Norwegian here:: https://e24.no/karriere-og-ledelse/i/xmzPAl/tid-for-lederskap

During our conference April 1st, this topic will be discussed by top executives and thought leaders – so make sure to join this important debate.

Learn more and get your tickets here: https://www.sheconference.no