The other day, a team member mentioned that I was "thoughtful and inclusive." I was curious about why they felt that way, and they explained it was because I didn't start our meeting with small talk about college football, unlike others.
It made me realize that what I saw as a "normal" practice—avoiding conversations that might exclude half the team who aren't interested in college football—was actually seen as an inclusive behavior.
What other small actions can make a project leader more inclusive in day-to-day interactions?
I also made a poll, just in case you prefer to answer in the poll feature
Acknowledging contributions is a vital practice for an inclusive project leader. By recognizing and celebrating individual achievements, you not only validate team members’ efforts but also highlight the diverse skills and perspectives they bring to the table. This fosters a sense of belonging and motivation, encouraging everyone to contribute their unique talents. For instance, publicly appreciating a team member's innovative idea or effective collaboration can inspire others to share their insights, ultimately enhancing team cohesion and project success.
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1 reply by Mayte Mata Sivera
Oct 21, 2024 3:18 PM
Mayte Mata Sivera
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Thank you for your comment, agree that is a good practice to publicly appreciating a team.
I feel the key to being inclusive is to ensure that the expectations of all team members are aligned at the beginning. As someone who have dealt with this situation before, I ensure that during the beginning of the project, I ensure that the right expectations are set in the project for communication. Since we deal with diverse teams, its quite natural to have different perspectives but as a project manager, it is necessary to align on expectations to ensure that the project goes forward smoothly while ensuring that the team members have the freedom to communicate freely as well. And I just ensure that I create the right time and the environment for it not hampering the work.
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1 reply by Mayte Mata Sivera
Oct 21, 2024 3:18 PM
Mayte Mata Sivera
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Thank you for your comments, right expectations are key!
Taking cognisance of the diversity within the team not only in terms of culture but different skill set abilities, driving this awareness with empathy would aslo aid thbe process.
Demonstrating real curiosity is a good way to model the right types of behavior for your team. A curious mind is open to diversity and different ideas.
Project & PMO Manager | Research & Enterprise Mentor| GFB HoldingSouth America, Brazil
Inclusive leadership in day-to-day interactions is about creating an environment where every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute. As someone who has studied emotional intelligence management with a focus on team leadership, I can attest that small actions can have a significant impact on team dynamics and overall performance.
1) One key aspect is personalized communication. Understanding and adapting to each team member's communication preferences shows respect and makes individuals feel more comfortable. This goes hand-in-hand with active listening - giving full attention, maintaining eye contact, and providing thoughtful responses.
2) Additionally, using inclusive language and being mindful of cultural references ensures that all team members can engage fully in discussions.
3) Creating opportunities for diverse contributions is another crucial element. This can include rotating meeting facilitators, implementing "spotlight" moments for team members to share their expertise, and actively seeking out diverse perspectives during decision-making processes.
4) Recognizing and celebrating achievements that reflect the team's diverse strengths further reinforces the value of each individual's contributions.
Regular personal check-ins and creating safe spaces for feedback demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement and show that you value each team member's well-being and growth. Saving Changes...
As someone who hasn't watched a college, semi-pro, or pro game (any sport) in over a decade, I feel comfortable saying that there is nothing wrong with initiating small talk about sports, on the condition that you are asking about the interests of one or more people in the room, and you ask about other attendee's interests, as well. Maybe not everyone in the same meeting, or the actual meeting will never get started, but across meetings, get to know your teams and ask about their interests.
Don't wait for meetings to engage with your teams. You pass them in the hallways and in the breakroom/cafeteria (maybe sit with them if that doesn't make them uncomfortable), or going to or from the parking lot. You should probably avoid small talk in the restroom, however, and never follow them into the Mother's room. Be more interested in engaging, involving, and understanding the people you work with than you are in "inclusivity". Most people can tell the difference between you caring about them and you caring about trying to look good.
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1 reply by Mayte Mata Sivera
Oct 21, 2024 3:22 PM
Mayte Mata Sivera
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Sure, there is nothing wrong to talk aobut sports, unless the conversation is used to don't include half of the team.
I'm fan of this sentence... "Most people can tell the difference between you caring about them and you caring about trying to look good". 1000% Agree.
Acknowledging contributions is a vital practice for an inclusive project leader. By recognizing and celebrating individual achievements, you not only validate team members’ efforts but also highlight the diverse skills and perspectives they bring to the table. This fosters a sense of belonging and motivation, encouraging everyone to contribute their unique talents. For instance, publicly appreciating a team member's innovative idea or effective collaboration can inspire others to share their insights, ultimately enhancing team cohesion and project success.
Thank you for your comment, agree that is a good practice to publicly appreciating a team. Saving Changes...
I feel the key to being inclusive is to ensure that the expectations of all team members are aligned at the beginning. As someone who have dealt with this situation before, I ensure that during the beginning of the project, I ensure that the right expectations are set in the project for communication. Since we deal with diverse teams, its quite natural to have different perspectives but as a project manager, it is necessary to align on expectations to ensure that the project goes forward smoothly while ensuring that the team members have the freedom to communicate freely as well. And I just ensure that I create the right time and the environment for it not hampering the work.
Thank you for your comments, right expectations are key! Saving Changes...
Taking cognisance of the diversity within the team not only in terms of culture but different skill set abilities, driving this awareness with empathy would aslo aid thbe process.
Demonstrating real curiosity is a good way to model the right types of behavior for your team. A curious mind is open to diversity and different ideas.
Kiron
Love it, that you mentioned "real curiosity" Saving Changes...
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