Why Using Common Sense is a Diversity & Inclusion Mistake

A lot of organisations rely on common sense when promoting diversity.

Find out why using common sense to help you on your inclusion journey is a big mistake that could be harming your progress

Here are some key messages from this episode

  • 3 Common sense mistakes that organisations make
  • The Inclusion opportunity that is hiding in plain sight
  • Why you should question received knowledge and anecdotes

Play the episode for more.

Here are some key takeaways from this episode

Relying on common sense to guide your inclusion efforts is a big mistake

“The people responsible for making business decisions about Diversity & Inclusion often rely on received wisdom or anecdotes to influence them. They rely heavily on narratives that sound like they make sense but when you dig deeper you realise that it’s leading you astray”

You need a nuanced understanding of the issues that you’re tackling

“So the common sense solution doesn’t address the structural issues in place.  Organisations like yours are realising that fixing this requires more effort, there are structural issues at work here. Systemic challenges that need to be addressed”

Use a performance management approach to keep you honest

“Organisations use performance management cycles to manage their operations, however this is not always the case for Diversity and Inclusion. The foundation of a performance management cycle is an evidence-based approach. Plan, Do, Review. Rinse and repeat.”

Here are some resources so you can go deeper

2011 US Census

Barack Obama says women are paid 77 cents on the dollar

Check out these related episodes of the show

The Triple Threat that Makes Minority Groups Block Diversity & Inclusion

How Favouritism Threat Turns Diversity Advocates Like You into Diversity Opponents

Whenever you’re ready, there are a few ways I can support your Inclusion Journey:

The Elements of Inclusion #4

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The Elements of Inclusion #3

Leaders must establish systems to ensure that everyone shares the same advantages and benefits. These processes will create incentives for inclusive behaviours.

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The Elements of Inclusion #2

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Leaders must properly socialise people and socialise inclusive ideas by providing an environment for the cultural learning needed for an active role in an inclusive organisation

  • How your socialisation processes must evolve to encourage the sustainable cultivation of inclusive competencies
  • Why Leaders must consistently negotiate the line between organisational commitment and personal authenticity to promote performance
  • How developing intersectional self awareness can help leaders to leverage individual employee experiences