Diversity in Energy Op-ed: How to Become a More Inclusive Leader

We have heard a lot about inclusive leadership over the last few years. You may wonder whether it is just the latest in a long line of corporate buzzwords—“paradigm shift” and “swim-lanes” come to mind. No, inclusive leadership is here to stay. In fact, it’s not new. It has been here all along.

When you think about it, we have always been more attracted to leaders who hear us, see us and value us. These are leaders who provide feedback in a constructive manner, challenge us to be our best and appreciate us for who we are. But the command-and-control boss has historically attracted the most attention. You know what I mean—someone who knows it all, tells you what to do and how to do it. They tend to recruit and promote people who are replicas of themselves.

Who would you rather work for, go the extra mile for or feel safe suggesting a new and creative solution to? The inclusive leader.