Definitions: What does diversity and inclusion mean?

Graphic of definitions. Psychological safety: Employees feel safe and are encouraged to speak up Leaders create trust through perspective-taking capability. Diversity: Employees hired for diversity of life experience, thinking and approach Leaders challenge merit and design roles around flexibility. Inclusion: Employees feel valued and respected for the intersectional differences they bring Decision-makers identify and challenge bias as an inclusive leadership competency. Belonging: Employees grow and thrive by being their authentic selves. Leaders welcome perspectives different from their ow.

Culture Concepts © Perspective Hive

There are many terms that are used around the concept of diversity and inclusion. But how do they work together? In our model© we propose that psychological safety lays the foundation for diversity, inclusion and ultimately belonging.

Or as Verna Myers so eloquently puts it:

“Diversity is being invited to the party. Inclusion is being asked to dance”.

The Perspective Hive Maturity Model is useful in assessing where our clients are on the evolution of shifting their organisational system and culture in creating a foundation of psychological safety to create a deep sense of belonging where employees can bring their best and whole selves to work every day.

Belong is based on feeling valued, safe, respected and where there is fairness (graphic of four elements which influence an employees' lived experience around belonging)