Why are workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts often disappointing? An organizational psychologist and executive coach answers this question in “.. an unflinching look at every aspect of systemic bias and inclusion in the workplace.“ (Booklife by Publishers Weekly). This “nuanced and personalized” work advocates for leading the work from the top and prioritizing respect as the vital outcome that (all) employees need to see and feel.
“Effective inclusion leadership needs to start at the top of the organization,” Cox notes in this illuminating business guide focused on effective inclusion leadership, which starts from a jolting truth: businesses and organizations that committed in recent years to DE&I are too often still not seeing serious progress—or happier employees. Drawing on her experiences as an executive coach and organizational psychologist, she introduces a three-step framework for effective inclusion that provides leaders with strategic solutions to ongoing racial disparities amongst employees in workplace environments. Pairing historical data with the shared experiences of peers and colleagues, Cox explains the root causes of race-based discrimination and social inequality, noting that many Americans still report that they’re just learning about their nation’s racial disparities. The heart of the book is her “MBA” framework: Mindset, Boldness, and Action.Cox begins with a call to action for “those who have the power to change workplaces” to address their uncertainty around issues of race, take action, and be supportive. Divided into four main parts, the first section is a brief breakdown of U.S. history surrounding race, especially in regard to Black Americans. The next three sections are each dedicated to an aspect of Inclusion MBA. REDI (Respect, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) principles are incorporated throughout the guide. Cox asserts that “to effectively lead all employees, leaders must practice REDI” and address systemic bias in the workplace.
An extensive REDI exercise helps readers pinpoint their conscious and unconscious beliefs about people of color and how to approach anxiety surrounding these issues, and a REDI Action plan begins with clarifying any current diversity issues. From colorism to sexism, this guide takes an unflinching look at every aspect of systemic bias and inclusion in the workplace. Prioritizing respect and awareness, Cox provides senior leadership teams with a detailed roadmap to effective inclusion and meaningful REDI progress.
Takeaway: A real-world leadership guide to effective inclusion and diversity in the workplace.
Great for fans of: Anthony Greenwald and Mahzarin R. Banaji’s Blindspot, Mary-Frances Winters’s We Can’t Talk About That at Work!
Production grades
Cover: A
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A
