Diversity, or the state of being different, isn’t the same as inclusion. One is a description of what is, while the other describes a style of interaction essential to effective teams and organizations.
Bill Crawford
We live in a diverse world, no two people are the same, no two thoughts are alike but everything is customized to our liking. Hell, even Google and Instagram align their feed to our likes and preferences. But when living in a world where diversity does not guarantee inclusivity or equal rights, we can no longer take DEI or Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion lightly. It has become imperative for us to understand it and adapt our professional and personal lives to be more welcoming and inclusive.
In this week’s webinar, PCC coach Dr. Komal Smriti, Anshu Bhargava, PCC, and Suchitra Rajendra, ACC, led an engaging discussion on DEI coaching, which I honestly hoped should never end.
DEI’s Importance to the Organisation
“Diversity is about all of us, and about us having to figure out how to walk through this world together”– Jacqueline Woodson
DEI has become important for the organization because it leads to innovation, better productivity, and creativity. Just by providing a safe space to be open and heard, you not only boost the employees’ morale but also give way to an organizational culture supporting growth and innovation. DEI coaching ensures that varied opinions and thoughts come to the table, helping meet the diverse needs of your clients. Hence, the diverse mix of views caters to the world’s needs.
Provides a Safe Space
It’s no secret that there is discrimination in society and the world. We are all different and come with our own values, beliefs, and experiences. It’s important for us to understand where people are coming from and respect their experiences. Like Anshu said, “it is not just about equality but building it into equity.” This is how we ensure safe spaces with a solid foundation of awareness and compassion where everyone is heard. It is only possible through training and learning more about stories and shared experiences.
DEI: Challenges and How Coaching Helps
Sometimes, we unknowingly come in the way of DEI because of the unconscious biases that get reinforced because of our culture, upbringing, and backgrounds. DEI Coaching creates an awareness of these inherent biases and helps us overcome them. Then there are our dear leaders who can make or break an organization’s culture. As they rise up the ladder, they may not want to be vulnerable. Coaching provides them with a space to talk about their feelings more openly and be heard, in turn leading them to hear others better. It isn’t just about ticking the boxes or meeting the quota, but genuinely caring and creating a safe space for sharing openly and honestly.
My Takeaway
The biggest takeaway for me was that even though we may think we are all-inclusive, there are certain biases we aren’t aware of and hence can hurt or cause problems for others. Being aware of these prejudices is important for us to thrive and be more compassionate to ourselves, and in turn, to others.
These are my thoughts and views, do share yours with us on CoachNook or in the comments below.
Webinar: Meaning of DEI and the Role that Coaching Plays in Building an Understanding DEI?
Like to listen instead? We have a podcast!
This session is also available as audio-only on our podcast. Listen below or find Coach to Lead wherever you listen to podcasts.
