Diversity and inclusion are key components in creating an equitable work environment. When the word “diversity” is brought up, a lot of questions can pop into our minds:
- What does diversity mean?
- How do I develop the way I talk about diversity?
- How can I be an inclusive leader in the workplace?
These nine resources on diversity and inclusion address those questions and more.
What’s the Difference Between Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity? by Meg Bolger
In this article, Bolger helps readers understand each of the terms that make up DEI: diversity, equity, and inclusion. If companies don’t know the differences between these concepts and how they intersect, they can’t develop solutions. Bolger incorporates thought exercises throughout to help readers contemplate how the organizations they work for use these terms and how they approach them individually. Ensuring a clear understanding of these terms can allow us to engage in more profound conversations.
How to Use CliftonStrengths to Develop Diversity and Inclusion by Ella Washington
The CliftonStrengths assessment is used to help individuals from varying backgrounds feel accepted and valued for their unique qualities. In this article, Washington outlines how the CliftonStrengths assessment can create a feeling of inclusion and also help encourage diverse individuals to openly share their ideas, opinions, and critiques in the workplace, ultimately improving company performance.
The Diversity Gap Podcast with Bethaney Wilkinson
Want to learn fundamental lessons on diversity and cultural change while also hearing authentic stories paired with thoughtful conversation? Then we recommend checking out The Diversity Gap podcast hosted by Bethaney Wilkinson.
The Evolving Language of Diversity by Kathy Castania
This piece features the emerging language used to denote people as members of certain groups. Castania provides readers with varying perspectives when thinking about language, specifically regarding misused terms, terms that do not work, and common words or phrases that group identities prefer people to not use.
Companies Need to Think Bigger Than Diversity Training by Alexandra Kalev and Frank Dobbin
By analyzing the data from hundreds of employers over several years, Kalev and Dobbin found that the average diversity training procedure does not successfully encourage diversity. Instead, they inhibit diversity. In this article, Kalev and Dobbin offer alternative strategies that managers can implement to increase workforce diversity and opportunity.
Why Empathy Is a Superpower in the Future of Work by Lauren Pasquarella Daley, Tara Van Bommel, and Sheila Brassel
Many people don’t realize the power of empathy at work, nor do they understand the three dimensions of empathy. In this paper from Catalyst.org, the authors address the correct definition of empathy and common misconceptions of the term’s meaning, as well as how fostering a culture of empathy is important to an organization’s success.
Inclusive Conversations: Fostering Equity, Empathy, and Belonging Across Differences by Mary-Frances Winters
Productive discussions in regard to diversity can create a profound impact in the workplace, schools, churches, and everyday encounters. Mary-Frances Winters challenges readers to recognize their differences using empathy. She offers dialogue strategies to navigate difficult encounters with traditionally subordinate groups and how to recognize their struggles, construct a safe space, and develop trust for these conversations to flourish.
How to Be an Inclusive Leader: Your Role in Creating Cultures of Belonging Where Everyone Can Thrive by Jennifer Brown
Establishing an inclusive workplace is easier said than done. Brown provides readers with the Inclusive Leader Continuum, which contains four developmental stages: unaware, aware, active, and advocate. She then guides readers on how to fully progress through each stage, including the behaviors and thoughts to reach your highest level of inclusivity leadership.
The Leader’s Guide to Unconscious Bias: How to Reframe Bias, Cultivate Connection, and Create High-Performing Teams by Pamela Fuller with Anne Chow and Mark Murphy
Building more inclusive teams is essential to increase trust and advocate for others. This book is a must-read for any manager, business leader, or employee who wants to conquer their unconscious biases. The authors provide guidance through case studies, activities, and assessments to give readers elevated perceptions of bias mindsets and behaviors.
