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As a leader, you will be faced with people who do not think and act exactly as you do. So, the question is…How do I get the most out of my team? Are you hiring individuals as a good fit for your team based on traits or competence?

In an article written by Wanda T Wallace at Strategy + Business: “Leaders who want the best out of their people need to get more comfortable with different messengers not only because it’s best for the organization, but it levels the playing field for employees, too.”

“When employees can see themselves in a leader, even just a bit, it is much easier for them to start a conversation.”

Are you and engaged leader? Do you really listen?

• Here are steps leaders can take who are serious about diversity and inclusion to provide a work space that allows all to be heard:
• Pay attention to the types of signals that matter most to you and the team.
• Make an intentional effort to listen to the perspective of someone who is not like you.
• Look at the outcomes you want someone to achieve, and then be open to how that person might achieve those results.
• Be aware that your own interests will affect the way you perceive others.
• Recognize that many underrepresented groups tend to get stuck in key roles, particularly if they are experts and great executors.

I encourage you to read this article by Dr. Wanda T Wallace. She is the managing partner of Leadership Forum, coaches, facilitates, and speaks on improving leadership through better conversations. She hosts the weekly radio show and podcast “Out of the Comfort Zone” and is the author of You Can’t Know It All: Leading in the Age of Deep Expertise.