Andy Lopata welcomes Sally Helgeson, an expert with 35 years’ experience in women’s leadership and inclusivity. Sally’s latest book, Rising Together: How We Can Bridge Divides and Create a More Inclusive Workplace explores the creation of a more diverse and inclusive workplace culture.
Sally Helgesen, cited in Forbes as the world’s premier expert on women’s leadership, is an internationally best-selling author, speaker and leadership coach. She has been inducted into the Thinkers 50 Hall of Fame, which honours those whose ideas have shaped the field of leadership worldwide. She is ranked number 3 among the world’s thought leaders by Global Gurus.
Andy and Sally discuss the significance of diversity and inclusion and Sally explains the distinction between diversity and inclusion, emphasising the importance of inclusive practices in recognising individuals outside the leadership mainstream. The conversation explores the pivotal role of professional Relationships and looks at the challenges and opportunities in cultivating a workplace culture that values and integrates diversity and inclusion.
The focus shifts to leaders fostering inclusive behaviors within their teams and organisations. Sally underscores the value of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and Women’s Networks in providing crucial support, mentorship, and networking opportunities. The positive shift towards inclusivity, involving men in formerly women-only networks, is highlighted.
The discussion unfolds looking at the impact of the absence of role models, particularly at senior levels, on individual aspirations. Sally emphasises the importance of diverse role models for various career aspects, transcending gender or ethnicity.
Diversity is an ever-expanding process encompassing various dimensions beyond gender and ethnicity. Choosing active participation in this transformative journey is considered a beneficial career approach. Sally and Andy explore the challenges of fostering inclusion and understanding diverse perspectives in the workplace. Proactive inclusivity, avoiding divisive rhetoric and addressing the concerns of those who feel left behind with empathy and curiosity, “How can I help you?” becomes a powerful bridge to understanding.
Navigating multicultural environments involves being a cultural ambassador, fostering connections, and seeking to understand diverse perspectives. Sally advocates making people feel heard and insists that it requires treating each individual as unique, irrespective of their background.
Sally challenges identity-based and unconscious bias models, advocating a focus on inclusive behaviours that promote collaboration and value diverse contributions. Andy and Sally emphasise the role of curiosity, understanding, and active support in building a truly inclusive workplace culture.
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