Building a diverse team isn’t just a progressive choice; it’s a smart business strategy.
Studies consistently show that teams with a broad range of perspectives drive innovation, offer creative solutions, and help organizations thrive. A diverse team brings new ideas and different ways of thinking, which can have a positive impact on a company’s performance and its bottom line.
But simply assembling people from different backgrounds isn’t enough. For a diverse team to reach its full potential, team members need to feel welcomed, valued, and included. The key lies in leadership that can foster a culture of respect, openness, and engagement. Managers who can harness the power of diversity and cultivate an inclusive environment will set their teams—and their organizations—up for long-term success.
Let’s explore a 3-step approach to effectively managing a diverse team, helping every member feel valued and engaged.
3 Steps to Managing a Diverse Team Successfully
- Identify Homogeneity
To create unity within a diverse team, it’s essential to find common ground. For instance, every team member—no matter their age, race, culture, or gender—desires respect. Treating each person with courtesy, respect, and diplomacy sets a standard and reinforces mutual respect. Set conversational norms like “Use Neutral Language” or “Appreciate in Public, Critique in Private.” As a manager, model the positive behaviors you wish to see in the team. Build a “one team” culture by creating a shared group identity, clarifying goals, and encouraging team members to value each other’s unique skills.
- Create Engagement
Even the most diverse team won’t reach its potential if members aren’t engaged. To cultivate engagement, it’s important to create a sense of ownership among team members. Avoid any appearance of favoritism by giving equal attention to each employee and addressing potential concerns directly. Build strong relationships through team activities, whether they’re in-person gatherings or virtual hangouts for remote teams. Encourage communication and connection to prevent the formation of subgroups, which can lead to misunderstandings or conflict.
- Respect Individuality
Every person on your team has unique qualities and perspectives, which are the building blocks of a diverse team. Embrace this uniqueness by acknowledging and celebrating it. Recognize employees who might feel isolated, and mark cultural or significant events that matter to them. Consider creating a calendar of celebrations that reflect the diversity within your team. This kind of recognition demonstrates that you not only acknowledge diversity but actively value it.
Creating an Inclusive and Productive Diverse Team
Managers play an essential role in fostering an inclusive, respectful environment. By supporting a sense of belonging, they help their diverse teams thrive. Here are three key principles for managers to keep in mind:
- Fairness and Inclusion: Ensure equal treatment and opportunity for all.
- Value and Belonging: Show each team member that their unique contributions are valued, and encourage a sense of unity within the group.
- Confidence and Inspiration: Empower team members to speak up and pursue their best work. An inclusive mindset celebrates diversity and encourages every person to feel at home within the team.
When managers prioritize these elements, they not only build a strong and united team but also set a powerful example that diversity and inclusivity are integral to the organization’s values.
