Tiny steps that create Inclusion in Practice

We know about micro-aggressions but how about... MICRO-INCLUSIONS?⁠

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I don't mean including people 'a little' but the small, easy actions each of us can do to invite others to participate, create space and make them feel welcome: Inclusion in Practice.⁠ Micro-inclusions are the daily cues that tell people 'you are welcome here'.

These actions are not only powerful in themselves but they are a prerequisite for your more targeted Diversity and Inclusion initiatives succeeding. Because they are what make people feel like they belong, stay and use their voice.

💫 LISTEN. Really listen. Active listening where you are not thinking about what you are going to say next but hearing the other person and being interested. Asking [genuine] questions is one of the strongest ways of building rapport and affinity with someone.⁠

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💫 ACKNOWLEDGE & SEE. In a group, or so simple as when you even walk into a room (or a video call), look at, notice and acknowledge everyone. This seems so basic you might think it doesn't matter. But next time you're in a group conversation, as yourself: Who do you tend to look at and give most attention to? What happens if you switch that?

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💫 ENGAGE. Do you gravitate towards the people you know and like? We all do that, it's a normal bias. But in the work context, the idea is to build broader networks, circles of influence and understand others' strengths and skills to collaborate best. It may not come naturally, but we need to put in the effort to connect also with also those colleagues you feel less at ease with. ⁠

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💫 INVITE VIEWS. Get and encourage the views, expertise and input from different people in the team and use what people bring. Be mindful not to put someone down repeatedly or dismiss their ideas.⁠ Use the principle of improvisation - build on what others say rather than dismissing their thoughts off-hand, even if they seem 'wrong' or unworkable.⁠

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Inclusion is about making others feel seen, heard and respected and the simple path starts with intentional attention.