What Is Diversity & Inclusion?

How many times have you seen a company that has cliques? Tendencies for teams such as IT, Compliance, Operations and Leadership to?primarily?hang out with their respective departments—these are examples of SILOS!

In the Disney movie "Inside Out" there are five characters that represent different emotions within a young lady’s mind. This story ramps up when these characters begin to act in silos, resulting in a mess of negative reactions within the young lady’s body.

Silos may be subconscious to a degree, but this action may also contribute to a lack of emphasis on understanding and appreciating one another.

Diversity and inclusion are critical elements in the workplace that can impact productivity, innovation, and employee satisfaction. As more and more companies recognize the benefits of having a diverse and inclusive workforce, the demand for professionals who are skilled in working with diverse groups is on the rise. In this article, we will explore what it means to work as a diverse and inclusive professional, and how to develop the skills needed to succeed in this field.

What is Diversity and Inclusion?

Diversity and inclusion refer to the range of differences that exist among people in a workplace, including differences in race, gender, age, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, and disability. It is about creating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported, regardless of their background or identity.

Working as a diverse and inclusive professional requires a unique set of skills that go beyond technical expertise. Here are some of the skills and qualities that are essential for success in this field:

1.?Cultural Competence: To work effectively with diverse groups, it is essential to have cultural competence. This means having an understanding and appreciation of different cultures and customs and being able to communicate and work effectively with people from different backgrounds.

2. Communication Skills: Effective communication is critical in any workplace, but it is especially important when working with diverse groups. Being able to communicate clearly and respectfully, and being able to listen actively, is essential for building trust and relationships with people from different backgrounds.

3. Emotional Intelligence: Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize and manage your own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. It is essential in the workplace, particularly when working with diverse groups, as it helps to build empathy and understanding.

4. Flexibility and Adaptability: Working with diverse groups requires a willingness to be flexible and adaptable. Being open to new ideas and ways of working, and being able to adjust your approach to meet the needs of different individuals and groups, is essential for success.

5. Leadership: Effective leadership is critical in creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. Leaders who are committed to diversity and inclusion can set the tone for the entire organization and inspire others to embrace these values.

When you work together for one common goal great things tend to happen.

-Kenneth Peck