How should we celebrate our individual differences?

As society champions diversity, organisations are under more pressure than ever to provide an inclusive culture. Those that do will reap the rewards, but how should we celebrate our individual differences?

This article outlines five simple ways you can create a psychologically safe workplace and celebrate the differences of your employees.

1. Acknowledge the similarity bias

Humans are predisposed to be drawn towards those who are similar and wary of those who differ – not just in obvious characteristics such as age, race or gender, but in smaller, subtle ways such as upbringing, accent or dress sense. Recognising this natural bias in the workplace is the first step towards overcoming it.

2. Pop the filter bubble

One result of our preference for similarity is that we inadvertently filter out information and opinions that differ from our own. A great way to celebrate our individual differences is to encourage people to broaden their view by actively seeking out opposing views – you’ll see decision-making and creativity soar.

3. Make it OK to speak up

A ‘psychologically safe’ workplace is one where everyone feels free to express themselves, and is an important way to start celebrating individual differences in the workplace. Encourage and reward asking questions, suggesting ideas, giving feedback and reporting mistakes without fear of repercussions, to cultivate a culture where everyone will give it their all.

4. Keep your door half open

Psychological safety is built in the everyday interactions you have with your team. Make people feel valued by responding positively and proactively to every request. Be available – both physically and psychologically – no matter what your mood or workload.

5. Identify your triggers

We’re all human, and we all have characteristics we react negatively to – whether it's someone’s preference for hierarchy, or their tendency to interrupt. By identifying what sets us off and learning to control it, we can create an environment where everyone feels safe to be their true selves and start celebrating our individual differences.