When discussing inclusivity and authenticity, a powerful quote (from Liz Fosslein) comes to mind: “Diversity is having a seat at the table, inclusion is having a voice, and belonging is having that voice being heard.” Our responsibility as leaders is to ensure that every team member feels like they belong.
The business landscape today has evolved to be much more inclusive. For instance, a greater work-life balance allows parents to focus on both family and career — a woman can be a mom, wife, and a chief. Developing these spaces of flexibility and understanding the importance of the work-life balance are what create an inclusive workplace.
Innovation and effective productivity are contingent on having authentic team members. My advice, which I also discussed on Becker’s Hospital Review podcast, is not to “fake it ‘till you make it”, do not imitate someone who is already at the table but instead, bring your unique background to the table with you. As Maya Angelou shared. “If you’re always trying to be normal, you will never know how amazing you can be.” Leaders, please do not make your team feel like they have to fit in — ensure that they show up to the discussion with their own diverse perspective. People should feel like they already belong without changing who they are, which is what DEI is truly about: meeting people where they are and helping them develop and fulfill their own personal potential, hand-in-hand with the rest of the team.
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About Richelle Webb Dixon: Committed to diversity and equality in healthcare and the workplace, Richelle Webb Dixon is a healthcare equality champion and compassionate leader. As a proven executive in the healthcare industry, Richelle has worked in a variety of settings- hospital operations, ambulatory care, community advocate, and medical education. All of her professional experiences, coupled with her will to bring about a positive change, allow Richelle to create a lasting impact in organizations she works with. She continues to work towards bringing healthcare diversity and equality for all, on the operational side and via serving on boards.
