Leading From The Middle: Building Inclusive Leadership At Every Level

Middle managers play a key role in driving equity and inclusion, including setting clear equity and inclusion goals, prioritizing education and championing inclusive practices. To foster a workplace culture where diversity is celebrated and inclusion is the norm, we need to encourage leadership from the middle -- not just the top down.

Achieving true inclusivity and diversity within an organization requires a concerted effort, commitment and leadership. So much of our corporate focus is on senior leadership, finding executive champions who are committed to building organizations with people at the center. While the responsibility for creating an inclusive workplace rests on everyone’s shoulders, middle managers emerge as key players in driving DEI initiatives forward. This blog explores how middle managers in the tech industry can play a pivotal role in building inclusive leadership practices.

Middle Managers: The Unsung Leaders Of DEI

Setting Clear Goals For Hiring And Retention

Middle managers often serve as the bridge between executive leadership and frontline employees. To improve DEI, they can set clear, quantifiable goals for hiring and retention. These goals should go beyond mere diversity of numbers and encompass strategies to create an inclusive work environment. By setting the tone for equitable recruitment and retention practices, middle managers pave the way for a more diverse and inclusive workforce.

Making DEI Learning And Development A Priority

Education is a powerful tool in combating biases and fostering inclusion. Middle managers should make DEI learning and development a priority within their teams. This includes facilitating workshops, training programs and discussions aimed at raising awareness about diversity issues and providing actionable strategies for addressing them.

Demonstrating Leadership Commitment To DEI

Middle managers must lead by example and demonstrate their commitment to DEI initiatives. When employees see their leaders actively advocating for diversity and inclusion, it sends a powerful message that DEI is not just a corporate policy but a core value of the organization.

Tailoring DEI Training

One size does not fit all when it comes to DEI training. Middle managers should customize DEI training to address the specific needs and challenges of their teams. This tailored approach ensures that employees engage more effectively with DEI initiatives and see their direct relevance to their work.

Encouraging Conversations And Education To Identify And Reduce Bias

Bias can be subtle and pervasive, making it challenging to detect and address. Middle managers can create an open and inclusive culture where team members feel comfortable discussing bias-related issues. Encouraging honest conversations and providing resources for bias education can help identify and reduce bias within the workplace.

Changing The Way They Approach Hiring

Traditional hiring processes can inadvertently perpetuate bias. Middle managers should advocate for changes in recruitment practices, such as blind resume screening, diverse interview panels and structured interviews. By championing these changes, they can help ensure a fair and inclusive hiring process.

Improving Awareness Around Biases Within Their Own Teams

Middle managers should be proactive in identifying and addressing biases within their teams. This includes monitoring team dynamics, providing feedback, and implementing strategies to promote fairness and inclusivity.

Inclusive leadership is not just a lofty goal but a strategic imperative for tech companies. Middle managers, with their unique position and influence, are instrumental in driving DEI initiatives forward. By setting clear goals, prioritizing education and championing inclusive practices, middle managers can help build a workplace where diversity is celebrated, equity is promoted and inclusion is the norm. Together with senior leaders, they can shape a future where every employee feels valued, respected and empowered to thrive.

Photo by Myriam Jessier on Unsplash