Do you commit microaggressions? Do you even know what a microaggression is? Microaggressions are those subtle, often unintentional comments or behaviors that can create a hostile work environment for marginalized groups. As a leader, it’s crucial to understand how to navigate these situations and cultivate a culture of respect and inclusion.

What are Microaggressions?

Microaggression can be verbal (e.g., asking a colleague of color “how they got so good at English”), nonverbal (e.g., constantly interrupting a woman speaking), or organizational (e.g., lack of diverse representation in leadership positions).

While seemingly minor, microaggressions can have a cumulative negative impact, leading to feelings of isolation, decreased productivity, and, ultimately, employee turnover.

Taking Action:

As a leader, you have a responsibility to address microaggressions. Here are four key strategies:

• Educate Yourself: Learn about different microaggressions and how they can impact your team members. 
• Open Communication: Foster a safe space where employees feel comfortable reporting microaggressions. Check out my free resource Words That Work.
• Active Listening: When microaggressions are reported, listen actively without judgment and take appropriate action. This might involve coaching the person who made the microaggression or implementing cultural competency training.
• Lead by Example: Demonstrate inclusive behaviors yourself and hold others accountable for upholding respectful communication.

Remember, creating a truly inclusive workplace is an ongoing process. As Ursula Burns, former CEO of Xerox, states, “Diversity is being invited to the party; inclusion is being asked to dance.”

By actively addressing microaggressions, you can cultivate a work environment where everyone feels valued, respected, included, and empowered to contribute their best work.

What are your thoughts? Share your experiences and tips for navigating microaggressions in the workplace in the comments below. Let’s keep the conversation going and build a more inclusive future for all employees. If you’re looking for a speaker to inspire and guide your organization toward a healthier company culture, consider booking me for your next event. Also, don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn. 

#leadership #workplaceculture #employeexperience #workplaceinjustice #DEI