A shocking 91% of workers reported having felt discriminated against at work just last year. This fact was revealed by CNBC in their recent piece on workplace discrimination. Yet, it is not just the statistics that are shocking. As we experience the full effects of Industry 4.0 and the rapid advancement in social media that has ensued, more and more people are beginning to reveal their individual stories.
The modern-day workforce needs strong inspiring leaders, now more than ever. Such leaders can have a huge impact on the work atmosphere which, in turn, can boost positivity within the workforce and nurture a safe space for employees within the organization. How do we achieve that? Let’s jump right in!
Here are some ways you can start creating a respectful environment at your workplace today!
1. Open Door Policies Go Beyond the Door!
Although open-door policies are a great addition if you want to encourage open and honest communication, they may not be enough. Making your employees feel welcome is a gesture that must come from within, and that is best shown through your actions and words.
One way to encourage employees to speak up, at least at the start, is through suggestion boxes placed all around the office, and even through anonymous surveys. This ensures you receive the feedback you need without making them feel uncomfortable. The final step should be acting on those suggestions as that is where your employees feel most respected.
Another great tip is to ensure all employees feel heard, regardless of their race, gender, age, or any other factor. Ensure no one speaks over another, and make sure all ideas as well as disagreements are given due importance.
2. Inspire by Example
The best way to create a respectful environment is to ensure all your employees are in on it. This means ensuring they have a role to play in the company atmosphere. However, that must be achieved through your leadership.
Help your employees recognize signs of disrespect and ensure that the repercussions are well communicated. Take it a step further by hosting regular talks on the negative effects of discrimination as well as what it may look like and how to overcome it.
3. Celebrate Achievements Across the Board
It is essential for leaders to not just celebrate the achievements of a certain individual or of those workers that fit into a particular category. Achievements should be celebrated across the workplace.
By recognizing employees who work hard, you can foster a positive atmosphere where people feel much more at ease when working together. It can also allow them to celebrate each other’s differences instead of fearing them.
4. Work on Active Listening
Active listening isn’t just important for leaders but is essential for all employees within the business. Listening to each other and understanding different perspectives is often the only way to encourage tolerance and acceptance.
Leaders can arrange workshops on active listening and take part in the lessons themselves, acting as role models to guide their teams on how to listen effectively.
5. Feedback and Setting Goals
Often, demotivation arises simply from a lack of direction. Leaders need to ensure they set goals reasonably and explain them carefully to their employees, in a way that they understand.
Moreover, feedback is great, up until it becomes unconstructive and personal. It is always recommended you use “I” statements to avoid making your employees feel like they are being backed into a corner!
Final Thoughts
How easy is it for you to identify workplace discrimination? Have you ever felt the target of discrimination in the workplace? Legal experts dealing with workplace discrimination and disputes relating to the same can help and support you through the process. However, you must take the first step.
If you feel you or someone you know has been the target of workplace discrimination and want to raise your voice, it is essential to find the right expert. Make sure you do your research and go through reviews before you decide!
Guest writer.
