Most people want fairness and justice in their workplaces, and it’s been widely recognised that whilst equality can see positive change equity is where we see transformation. Where equality gives us all the same opportunities equity goes the step further to recognise that we don’t all start from the same place and so conscious effort is made to correct imbalances.
We all have a part to play to develop equity, and a good starting place is often in the hands of those that lead. It is in the hands of Leaders in the workplace to set the tone and create an environment where equity exists. In today’s workplaces it’s been proven that there is a business case for equity but perhaps most importantly there is the moral and human calling.
For Leaders looking for where to start here are some skills to develop:
1. Curiosity and Creativity
In order to really understand those around you with different backgrounds and lived experiences, be willing to have courageous conversations. This means ask those more probing questions so you can get that deeper understanding that helps you to recognise where people are coming from. Rather than shy away from difference, celebrate difference, strive for inclusion over tolerance, recognise and celebrate individual strengths and difference and seek to harness this to make a workplace that works for all.
2. Be Bold
Curiosity and creativity require courage and the ability to be vulnerable, recognising that you might not have all the answers and, you may make mistakes but be bold, and take any new understanding to make effective change. Also be bold enough to recognise your privilege where it exists and allow marginalised voices to be heard.
3. Listen to understand not just to respond
When you ask those probing questions and have those courageous conversations make a conscious effort to listen and to understand, this is the best starting point. To support, challenge and lead them effectively Leaders must listen actively. They must listen to hear and understand not just to respond and it’s from that place that you are able to build effective and productive relationships.
4. Demonstrate Empathy
This can be a challenge when you hear experiences and stories far removed from your own, but the more you try to put yourself in the shoes of others and understand how others feel the stronger it can make your desire to play your part to make things better for all. A deeper understanding can help you to understand your role in the system and recognise your own biases which can help you as you create a more equitable environment.
5. EQ over IQ
It’s all very well having leadership intelligence and knowledge but to drive real equity you need to be able to have emotional intelligence, to read emotional cues in yourself and in your team. This ability to recognise the way that you are relating to those you lead and the effect you have on them is a powerful skill to guide and facilitate your teams and create equitable environments where varying needs can be met.
Now you know equity does not need to be some holy grail what step will you take today towards making your workplace more equitable?
Want to learn more? Find out more about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion from Jenny Garrett OBE’s new book: Equality Vs Equity: Tackling issues of race in the workplace or here are some further resources that can help you unpack what equity looks like in your workplace.
Jessica Rogers is an Executive Coach and Leadership Development specialist her clients come from Retail, Public Sector, Charity Sector, Global Law Firms, Financial Sector and Universities. When you ask Jessica’s clients what they get from working with her, they will tell you that she will inspire and challenge you to uncover your true goals and ambitions, she will inspire you to confidently use your voice, own your future and gain the career and life that that you want and deserve.
She combines practical business savvy from experience in the corporate sector alongside deep coaching skills and a safe space to explore possibilities and to help her clients be bolder, braver and more successful in life. Jess has wide coaching experience with people at all levels, the common purpose is finding joy and purpose in work.
