5 Ways You Can Create a More Inclusive Workplace Immediately
by: Frans Johansson
from: Entrepreneur
1. Bounce an idea off of someone unexpected in your office.
Companies are structured for narrow execution, so chances are, you are sitting on a team of experts skilled and experienced in one area -- product development, let's say. Around this team, you regularly interact with other relevant teams such as marketing and sales. It's not likely that you would have shared an idea or challenge with someone in procurement. Why would you? At tech companies, for example, software developers often doubt they could ever learn anything from marketers. But, if you have 10 minutes, give it a go and see what questions or insights that unexpected colleague gives you in response. Once you start looking for people you don't normally interact with, you can become a connector for others in your day-to-day circle.
2. Change up your environment.
If you can do it in your workplace, leave your desk and work in a different area of the office for a few hours. You'd be surprised at how it can really change up your perspective. You may have interactions with people you otherwise wouldn't, especially if you put yourself where there is a consistent movement of people. This small change of scenery will allow for more collisions and spark new ideas.
3. Rotate who runs your meetings.
Let's face it, most meetings are either too long or end up rehashing the same topics again and again. In some cases, you may have the same people talking and talking and talking, while others remain silent or disengaged. Change up the dynamic by rotating who runs meetings. Give that individual the leeway to be creative, while ensuring you're in alignment on the goals of the meeting. This gets people engaged and sends a signal that everyone's contribution matters. When done well, this creates openings for everyone to weigh in and, hopefully, inspire lively discussions and decisive actions.
4. Leave your assumptions at the door.
It is easy and often natural to make assumptions about others in the workplace, leading to misunderstandings, biases and often wrong conclusions. The next time you find yourself assuming something of someone -- even if it's as simple as "She's probably too busy" -- stop yourself. And ask the question first of that individual. Even if you confirm your assumption, you now have an informed understanding as a basis for further exploration and clarity.
5. Talk about something other than work.
It is easy to get caught up in the day-to-day responsibilities of your job and not take the time to actually get to know people in your office. Disrupt the work paradigm by having a conversation with a colleague you don't normally talk to and engage them on a non-work related topic. As you consider ways to bring your whole self to the office, it is good to find a connection with others outside of work. This connection will often improve the ease of the working relationship and enhance overall communication.
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