Inclusive leadership has value far beyond moral and ethical reasons – numerous studies now show that inclusive leaders can improve financial performance, individual productivity, and overall employee satisfaction within organizations. Research consistently demonstrates that companies led by inclusive leaders tend to outperform their competitors in terms of profitability, innovation, and business outcomes.
Some reports highlight that organizations with inclusive leadership practices are 6 times more likely to be innovative and agile, and 8 times more likely to achieve better business outcomes (1).
Companies that have a balanced representation of gender, ethnicity and culture in their executive positions are more likely to outperform those who lack diversity. In fact, these companies had up to a 33% higher chance of surpassing their peers in terms of EBIT margins (1)
But the more fundamental truth is that inclusive leadership is simply a style of leadership that is best suited to teams operating in the volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) world we now inhabit. In other words,
The increasing ambiguity and interdependence between teams in the modern workplace make it crucial for leaders to be flexible and adaptable, able to harness the collective intelligence and diverse perspectives of their workforce. Inclusive leadership fosters a culture where diverse perspectives are valued, leading to enhanced decision-making processes, greater innovation, and a more resilient organisational structure capable of navigating the complexities of the global market.
This approach is not just beneficial in fostering a positive workplace culture; it is a strategic advantage.
The Inclusion Competency Framework serve as a roadmap, leading leaders through a progressive journey. It begins with cultivating self-awareness and a growth mindset, progresses to nurturing diverse teams and interpersonal agility, then emphasises fostering psychological safety and openness within teams, and ultimately culminates in advocating for equity and fostering collaboration across the organization. This comprehensive approach provides a clear path for inclusive leadership development.
By embracing a clear, actionable definition of inclusive leadership, organizations can tap into the full capabilities of their workforce, drive superior financial outcomes, and navigate the challenges of the modern business landscape with greater agility and resilience.
Symmetra offers unique Inclusive leadership solutions that cultivate leaders who can effectively connect with diverse teams to achieve exceptional outcomes. Our approach empowers leaders to utilize data, gain insights, acquire skills, and take ownership in fostering inclusive behaviours and promoting equity throughout the organisation.
Executive learning journey combining unique combination of assessment, capability building, coaching, experiential group learning and digital embedding tools.
A sophisticated 360-degree diagnostic for senior leaders, measuring observable behaviors to reveal inclusion strengths, weaknesses, and blind spots. Empowering leaders to drive inclusive cultures and address bias with objective KPIs.
Tailored solutions covering inclusion pillars such as awareness, counteracting bias, flexible work, psychological safety, and diversity of thought.
Middle and Front-Line Leader programs including workshops, digital learning and tools to apply in the flow of work that embed inclusion in the day-to-day