You're navigating team dynamics. How do you foster inclusivity and respect for diverse perspectives?

Engage in open dialogue, actively listening to different perspectives, and valuing contributions regardless of background. Establish norms that promote equity and create opportunities for all team members to participate and contribute their unique viewpoints.

I strongly agree with this. In a world where we are constantly rushing and trying to multitask, taking the time to listen and clearly understand another person makes a significant difference. When someone feels heard and understood, the dynamic changes completely, fostering greater trust.

We will see the world only from our own perspective - and when inclusivity is what is needed nothing works better than dialogue. Open, honest and non judgmental dialogue. Be open to asking what you don't understand and be respectful in asking it. The first question to ask is "Where is the bias ?" because it's there - now you want to know where it is so you can deal with it. It could in be in your hiring/promotion/recognition/language/behaviours. None of these are being done on purpose( I hope!) but being aware and hearing someone out will make a huge difference. Start with listening and asking.

To further enhance the effectiveness of these discussions, guide the conversation towards actionable outcomes by asking team members what they would do in specific situations. Encourage them to think critically and propose solutions, making it their idea to execute. This approach not only fosters a sense of ownership and accountability but also empowers the team to take initiative and implement their own ideas, leading to more engaged and motivated team members.

Setting the ground rules (the what) and the expectations (the how and when) and get buy in and support from each person at the start of the program. These things aren’t easy and take time so be sure that each person in the program can do this! Set the goals early.

It comes down to asking and allowing everyone on the team to provide input on a project or going round-robin during a sharing time at staff meetings. Speaking may not be everyone's thing, so asking for written submissions helps. Then reporting back out helps everyone see the accomplishment, questions, and perspectives of their team mates, allowing their diverse backgrounds to shine. I agree that establishing some rules of respect should be established so it remains a discussion, not an argument.

Building tolerance to diverse views is key to fostering inclusivity sustainably. This can be done by seeking to understand the background to others views rather than jumping into assumption or judgment. The focus is to be on the view shared not on the one who shared the view. Having this awareness of distancing the person who shared and the view can build immense tolerance and openness to dialogue and learn.

One thing I've found helpful is the power of contextual stories. Using stories of people and situations (whether real or simulated) can help us see others as people worthy of belonging and inclusion in our different spaces. An activity such as "A day in the life of..." as taught in design for belonging paradigms can be very helpful