Article by Dr Shirley Knowles, Chief Inclusion and Diversity Officer, Progress and Katie Kulikoski, Chief People Officer, Progress
Once seen as a marker of an outstanding leader, empathetic management is now a fundamental expectation. Business leaders must be able to understand the needs of others and to consider their perspectives when making business decisions.
This is partly due to the impact of workplace empathy on diversity and inclusion initiatives – 50% of employees with empathetic leaders state that their workplace is inclusive, compared to just 17% of those with less empathetic leadership.
So how can leaders ensure that they are utilising empathy to boost their diversity and inclusion efforts?
A crucial first step is to understand that you may have to challenge your own thoughts and mindset in order to bring empathy into your day to day work.
To illustrate this, it’s helpful to use the model of system 1 and system 2 thinking, made popular by Daniel Kahremah. System 1 thinking is our brain’s fast, automatic and emotional responses to stimuli. It’s at this level that bias often creeps in – we make split second judgements about people based on characteristics such as their race, gender or age. System 2 thinking is slower and more deliberate. It’s here that we use logic and reasoning to solve problems.
Many of us are guilty of letting system 1 thinking influence too many of our decisions. It’s important that leaders try to slow down and challenge those automatic assumptions. Taking the time to think logically will allow them to remember the perspective of others, rather than making decisions based on those initial judgements.
In order to consider the perspective of others when making decisions, you must find out what those perspectives actually are. There is one simple way to learn them: listen.
At Progress, we’ve hosted listening tours with employees from all across the globe. Sessions are kept small to ensure that everyone there is comfortable, and feedback is passed on anonymously. This allows us to ensure that our leadership team is kept well informed of the needs and desires of our workforce, and to incorporate that into their leadership styles.
Generating feedback in this way is incredibly valuable, but listening can also occur on a much smaller scale. On a day to day basis, simply taking the time to talk and truly listen to others will offer huge insights into their lived experiences. Within any organisation there will be people dealing with huge challenges, both in the workplace and in their personal lives. Understanding these is the first step in creating a workplace culture that serves everyone. Afterall, how can any company expect its diversity and inclusion efforts to be successful if they aren’t able to identify the unique challenges within their organisation?
Whilst increasing empathy is important, there must also be a focus on outcomes. Leaders who have learned about their workforce’s perspectives should ensure that they are actively using this knowledge to drive change. Employees want to see that their feedback is driving meaningful action.
Ask yourself: what programmes have been created based on the feedback given? What support is now offered as a result of conversations with staff? How has my leadership style altered to better serve the needs of the staff in my organisation?
By both taking the time to slow down and really understand the needs and perspectives of staff, and then ensuring that those insights are turned into real change, leaders are setting themselves up for the best chance of success in building a positive and inclusive workplace.
September
11sep12:3013:30Wellbeing Series - Women’s health (in the workplace/for employers) | Kingswood Group
11/09/2024 12:30 - 13:30(GMT+01:00)
Join our topical webinar. Kingswood Group invite you to join our topical webinar. We
Kingswood Group invite you to join our topical webinar.
We explore the main health issues affecting women.
Join Sue Porter from the Wellbeing Clinic.
In this lunchtime seminar we will explore the main health issues affecting women including female cancers (particularly breast, ovarian, and cervical cancer), heart disease, menopause, osteoporosis, and dementia.
We will discuss symptoms to be aware of, preventative checks, and how to self-check for some conditions. Due to the indisputable inequalities surrounding women’s health, this seminar is a must-watch for all women.
Reserve your spot here.
Free
13/09/2024 09:00 - 17:00(GMT+01:00)
ISH Venues sharesoc semi
1 Park Crescent, London, W1B 1SH
Embrace your introverted power. It’s time to be Quietly Visible. Are you ready to embark on a transformative journey redefining leadership? Introducing Quietly Visible: The Introverted Leaders
Introducing Quietly Visible: The Introverted Leaders Conference – more than just an event, it’s a movement led by the visionary founder, Carol Stewart.
This conference is a rallying point for introverted leaders, a haven where strengths are embraced, not hidden. The belief at the core is simple but profound: introversion is not a limitation, but a powerful asset that, when nurtured effectively, leads to incredible success.
Conference Highlights:
Carol Stewart, founder of Abounding Solutions and the visionary behind Quietly Visible: The Introverted Leaders Conference invites you to join her in the first-of-its-kind conference.
With over three decades of leadership experience, Carol is a passionate advocate and researcher dedicated to empowering introverted individuals.
Join Carol this September at ISH Venues, London, and embark on a journey that will change the landscape of leadership thinking.
Carol will be delivering her Keynote Talk, Shifting Perceptions, Changing the Narrative and is joined by an empowering selection of Introverted Leaders
Early Bird Tickets are available until 12th June 2024. Tickets include a pass to all sessions, networking and energiser, a light lunch and refreshments throughout the day.
Book early to avoid disappointment as tickets are limited.
If you are unable to get your employer to pay for your ticket and as such, have difficulties paying the full event fee, email [email protected], let us know your circumstances, and we will do our best to make it happen for you.
Due to a number of requests from people outside the UK, the option to attend the conference virtually has now been added. You can get your virtual ticket at https://virtualintrovertedleadersconference.eventbrite.com
Carol Stewart is the founder of Abounding Solutions and author of Quietly Visible: Leading with Influence and Impact as an Introverted Woman listed as one of the 10 best books written by women to read during lockdown. She is an Executive, Career, and Leadership Coach, Speaker, Trainer and Author.
She specialises in introverted women who are senior leaders and other underrepresented groups. She coaches leaders who experience imposter syndrome and self-doubt, who struggle to get their voice heard and command the room with their presence. She coaches them to lead with confidence, influence and impact. She also provides workshops, webinars, and talks on a variety of topics related to personal, career, and leadership development; and inclusion.
Carol was recognised as one of Britain’s Top 50 business advisers by Enterprise Nation; a Rising Star Champion (for her work with women leaders) by We Are The City and named a LinkedIn Top Voice UK 5 times (including 2022 Top Voice for gender equity).
In 2023 she was added to the Northern Power Women, Power List which recognises trailblazers who challenge the norm and shift the dial towards a more equitable world for women in work; listed as a Top 32 Business Influencer by Business Leader Magazine; and was the winner of an Inspirational Woman Award for the 18th Wise Women Awards.
Carol is a semi-regular columnist for the Sheffield Telegraph and hosts the Quietly Visible podcast. She gives her time to causes that support the next generation, gender and racial equality, and social inclusion. She is a co-founder of the Black Northern Women, International Women’s Day conference which sees women from 22 cities congregate in Sheffield for a day of learning, empowerment, and transformation.
Sharing aspects of her research looking at the experience of belonging and psychological safety in the workplace for introverted leaders, Carol will talk about how introverts can thrive as leaders, whilst being their authentic selves.
17sepAll DayTechWomen100 Awards - Winners announced
17/09/2024 All Day(GMT+00:00)
The Winners of the 2024 TechWomen100 Awards will be announced on 17 September 2024 via the website. Click here for
The Winners of the 2024 TechWomen100 Awards will be announced on 17 September 2024 via the website.
17sep08:0010:00Supercharge Your Mindset with Former Olympian Lesley Sackey
17/09/2024 08:00 - 10:00(GMT+01:00)
BOSS Bar
178-180 Regent St., London W1B 5TW
An Exclusive Breakfast Event with BOSS WeAreTheCity are thrilled to invite you to an inspiring breakfast event in
WeAreTheCity are thrilled to invite you to an inspiring breakfast event in partnership with BOSS: Supercharge Your Mindset with Former Olympian Lesley Sackey.
Event Details:
This exclusive event is designed to help you unlock the power of a winning mindset, drawing on the experiences of Lesley Sackey, a Team GB Gold Olympian Boxer, who knows firsthand the importance of mental strength in achieving success.
What You’ll Gain:
Enjoy a nourishing breakfast while networking with professionals who are as passionate about growth and achievement as you are.
Don’t miss this chance to learn from an Olympic champion and empower yourself with the tools to achieve your goals. Reserve your spot today and start your journey toward a winning mindset!
We look forward to seeing you there!
Ticket Cost: £10 – All proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to Lesley Sackey’s charity, Fight Forward, supporting initiatives that empower individuals through sports and positive mindset.
17sep09:0013:00Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at Work | Moore Kingston Smith HR Consultancy
17/09/2024 09:00 - 13:00(GMT+01:00)
9 Appold Street,
London EC2A 2AP
Join us to discuss how to create a more inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone is treated with respect. Tue, 17 Sep 2024
Join us to discuss how to create a more inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone is treated with respect.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at Work
Join us for an insightful workshop focusing on Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion in the workplace. This in-person event will be held at 9 Appold Street, London, UK. Learn from industry experts, engage in discussions, and gain valuable insights on fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. Don’t miss this opportunity to network and exchange ideas with like-minded professionals. Register now to secure your spot!
Reserve your spot here.
17sep09:3015:30Nuture Network | It takes a village conference
17/09/2024 09:30 - 15:30(GMT+01:00)
Rise London
41 Luke Street London EC2A 4DP
Great things happen when we get together. That’s why we’re bringing you Nurture Network Live 2024 taking place this year, in central London. It takes a village is
Come and grow your network, and meet people who could become valuable allies. Connect with the investors who are shaping the next generation of innovators and creators and hear a list of inspiring speakers and more. Grab your early bird ticket before 28 June.
We’re in an era where the main character’s energy reigns supreme/is celebrated and the thing to aim for. And it’s brilliant, it sees people, particularly women and underrepresented groups, taking back control of their narrative. But if you’re not careful it can feel like a bit of a solo pursuit.
What about the supporting cast!? Every leading lady needs a supporting cast. Much like this year’s theme implies, it really does take a village to turn out a well-rounded successful business. Yes we know the original phrase refers to bringing children up, but…
Building on ideas touched upon in the inaugural Nurture Network Live 2023 event – around asking for and accepting help, and how success is not achieved alone – this theme would explore how female founders and business leaders can call on the support of their own “village” to build their business and thrive in their careers.
Sign up to secure your early bird ticket and seat before 28 June to avoid disappointment.
Date: Tuesday 17 September 2024 | 9:30am -3:30pm
Location: Rise London, 41 Luke Street London EC2A 4DP
About Nurture Network
The Nurture Network seeks to unite underrepresented entrepreneurs, founders, and business owners with more established business professionals, providing a space for collaboration, idea-sharing, and inspiration.