Your team is divided on diversity and inclusion priorities. How do you unite them towards a common goal?

Assessing views on diversity and inclusion requires more than just gathering opinions—it's about understanding the underlying reasons behind those perspectives. Facilitate honest, respectful conversations where team members feel safe to express their views. This process uncovers common concerns, misconceptions, and unique insights, helping to build a foundation for unity and a clear understanding of your team's stance. It’s a critical step toward fostering a more inclusive and cohesive environment.

Dividing priorities would come from more opinions and ideas which is a good problem to have. The good thing about solving for DEI is that mostly people come with a good intent and no one is fighting for a an ego driven agenda. Most often than not 'bigger cause and bigger impact' would win out of all the different viewpoints.

To unite a divided team on diversity and inclusion, start by facilitating open, respectful conversations where everyone can voice their perspectives. Emphasize shared values and the collective benefits of a diverse, inclusive workplace, such as innovation, employee satisfaction, and better decision-making. Establish clear, common goals that reflect these values and show how each team member’s contributions are crucial to achieving them. Lead by example, demonstrating commitment to these principles in your actions and decisions. Regularly celebrate small wins and progress, reinforcing the positive impact of working together towards a more inclusive environment.

To effectively manage diversity and inclusion, I follow what I call the 4A’s: Analyze, Assess, Assign, and Align. First, analyze team members' views to understand their differences. Then, assess their understanding of diverse perspectives. Assign each member the task of exploring these differences, allowing time and space for their ideas to develop. Finally, align these perspectives through deep, honest, and respectful conversations, fostering mutual understanding and acceptance within the team. This approach not only embraces diversity and inclusion but also strengthens team cohesion.

I strongly believe that with the use of any of these social and behavior change communication SBCC strategies such as Social mobilization or Behavior change communication any of these communication strategies can effectively curb team’s diverse perspective on diversity and inclusion.

Setting SMART goals enhances a team's success. When setting objectives to improve diversity and inclusion, it's crucial to consider diverse cultural backgrounds and establish goals that are socially fair and equitable for all groups. This approach effectively amplifies diversity and inclusion efforts.

Education extends beyond the classroom; it plays a crucial role in shaping individuals' awareness of diversity and inclusion daily. By committing to thorough education on these topics, we foster a more productive and sustainable future, enhancing team development and driving overall growth

Fostering inclusion is the best way to accept different opinions from others. This create a sense of belongingness and identity. Letting others feel heard and appreciated leads to more growth and progress in all team activities.

Measuring progress is a strategy in tracking progress and improving amends to weaknesses of every team. When progress is measured, the road map to achieving set objectives are often effective.