Inclusive Leadership

Inclusive leadership refers to the capabilities (i.e. mindsets, knowledge, skills and behaviours) that ensure a diversity of employees feel included and that their perspectives improve an organisation’s strategy, work, and values for success. 

An inclusive leader is a people leader who creates an inclusive environment by:  

• valuing differences  

• seeking out a diversity of ideas 

• treating everyone equitably 

• dealing with inappropriate behaviour.  

[Source: Building Inclusion: An evidence-based model of inclusive leadership, DCA]. 

DCA’s Inclusive Leadership model 

DCA’s model of inclusive leadership provides a framework based on the following five inclusive leadership capabilities necessary for a person to be an inclusive leader. 

1. IDENTITY-AWARE
   Believes identity diversity can significantly improve organisational performance and so learns about their own and others’ identities (e.g. age, cultural background, gender). 
2. RELATIONAL
   Creates teams and networks in which a diversity of people feel they are connected, valued and respected. 
3. OPEN & CURIOUS
   Is curious about, and open to, new and different perspectives from a diversity of people. 
4. FLEXIBLE & RESPONSIVE
   Is flexible about, and responsive to, the perspectives and experiences of a diversity of people. 
5. GROWTH-FOCUSED
   Challenges accepted practices and incorporates different perspectives into how business is done. Actively works to create an organisation in which diversity and inclusion are at the centre of the culture.