Businesses may say they want diversity, but is that only skin deep? Bosses say they want transparency or open communication and feedback, but do they really? The best way to evaluate what someone says is to watch what they do.
When we talk about different people can bring different ideas, it makes brainstorming fabulous. Someone can bring ideas and respectfully that counter someone else’s - but it’s how the boss reacts that makes a difference.
If the boss is receptive, then people will feel free to contribute ideas. If the boss discounts everything, then no one speaks up. You could have Einstein in the room and he would be shot down (likely because the boss’ ego overrides all common sense). Two heads in the room don’t mean didley if the one head shuts his ears.
But a picture (a snapshot or picture of past action) shows how a person has reacted in the past, the actions predict future behavior. It’s not your job to force everyone’s eyes open. Only a few people have the metal to do that - to be fearless in the face of the boss-man. Know your strengths and work them!
For those leaders that only do lip-service to the possibilities of diversity: If you don’t embrace other’s ideas as a boss (note I’m not saying a leader because real leaders listen!), then you will find yourself with yes-men that will yes-you right down the drain… and if you are a working for a boss that doesn’t embrace all facets of diversity, including the ideas that aren’t your own, then you should find a real leader or become one yourself.
Remember it is your most important role to be true to yourself, to hold your ethical standards high, and to be as inspired as you were created to be. When you are fearless and give feedback that’s worthy of your intelligence and creativity, people will see you as a fabulous star - it may not come right away, but your legacy is more important than one meeting.
