Mark Freed: Let’s commit to flexing our inclusion muscle every day

Last week, I engaged in a thought-provoking conversation with a C-suite executive from a major UK plc. She challenged me with a statement that made me pause: “The problem with DEI is it’s not a burning issue for us. We’ve set gender targets and put in place new policies and procedures.”

While her statement addresses the diversity aspect, it overlooks the crucial component of inclusion. Achieving diversity through targets and policies is important, but it’s not something we influence on a daily basis. We don’t recruit and promote every day.

However, inclusion is a different story. It’s within all our capabilities to improve it daily. Increasing inclusivity may not seem urgent, but it presents a burning opportunity for most businesses. Research consistently shows that even in the best organisations, women experience a 20-30% poorer lived experience than their male counterparts. This impacts productivity, retention, and progression.

Later that week, I encountered an inspiring woman, Jennifer Odogwu who introduced me to the concept of the “inclusion muscle.”

Strengthening Our Commitment to Inclusion: A Muscle We All Must Exercise 

Just as we dedicate time to physical strength, our commitment to inclusion demands similar dedication. Inclusion isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a vital aspect of our professional and personal lives. Like a muscle, neglecting inclusion weakens it, affecting our teams, workplaces, and communities. But when we actively nurture and exercise our commitment to inclusion, it grows stronger, benefiting everyone involved.

Every action counts towards strengthening our inclusive muscle. Whether it’s listening to diverse perspectives, advocating for equitable opportunities, or fostering a culture of respect, each effort matters. Inclusion isn’t a solo endeavour—it’s a team sport. It requires collective action and continuous practice from every individual. By prioritising inclusion, we create a brighter, more equitable future for everyone.

Let’s commit to flexing our inclusion muscle every day, empowering each other, and building a world where everyone feels valued and respected. Together, we can achieve incredible things.