Inclusion and Influence
Fostering inclusion has become a core priority for organisations.
Policies and practices play a role, but it’s the daily, small-scale, interpersonal behaviours that can help build an environment where everyone has a sense of belonging.
A few small behaviours can have a big impact.
“Diversity is being invited to the party; inclusion is being asked to dance.”
Verna Myers
1 Active listening
Practising active listening – making eye contact, showing patience when others speak, taking time to check your understanding before moving on – conveys to others that their voices and experiences matter.
2 Empathy
Empathy is a cornerstone of inclusion. When individuals take time to consider others’ perspectives and challenges, they are more likely to be inclusive in their actions.
For instance, empathizing with someone facing accessibility problems helps to drive actions to improve the working environment for all.
3 Open-Mindedness
You can’t build inclusion without a considering new ideas, which means bridging.
Seeking to understand and appreciate diverse perspectives fosters a culture where diversity is seen as a strength rather than a challenge.
When hiring, for example, open-mindedness can translate to valuing diverse work histories and non-traditional qualifications. This in turn broadens the pool of applicants and enhances diversity.
4 Accountability
Inclusion is not static. It requires an ongoing commitment to improvement. Being accountable means admitting uncertainties, owning mistakes and working to correct them.
This builds trust and shows a dedication to creating an environment for all.
Continuous learning about inclusive practices, unconscious biases, and respectful engagement is also essential, as it enables individuals to remain aware and sensitive to the evolving needs of diverse communities.
5 Making Space
Inclusion often requires proactive effort, meaning we do not simply wait for individuals to find a place within a group but actively create spaces where they feel welcome.
This might look like something simple, such as giving time so non-native speakers can contribute without feeling rushed, to allowing individuals to use email if they prefer to express ideas in writing.
Conclusion: Small Behaviours with Big Impact
Creating an inclusive environment is not about imposing policies, but encouraging everyone to take responsibility for the day-to-day behaviours they bring to interactions. Small gestures—listening actively, showing empathy, being open-minded, holding oneself accountable, and proactively including others—can profoundly impact those around us.
Websites don't listen. But we do.
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