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The BPS Inclusive Leadership course
I'm very conscious that I often enter into new learning with a lot of gusto and energy.
As someone who already has some years of experience in both inclusion and leadership, you might wonder why I would take on the extra work of an Inclusive Leadership course. Yes, on top of actual work.
I must not have a very demanding role, right? Have tons of free time?
Nope. Wrong. As a leadership and management training facilitator for the country's largest employer, I am perpetually managing (juggling) time and projects.
Therefore, I'm very careful and only commit myself, my time and my energy into areas that are important and that I can leverage.
And… well… maybe there was just a little self-indulgence as inclusion happens to be a passion of mine.
Inclusion is a crucial aspect of employee engagement
I decided to take the Inclusive Leadership course to expand my knowledge, skills and confidence in this area. And let me tell you, it's been a journey.
Throughout the course, I've learned about the importance of understanding and valuing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.
It has also challenged me to hold the mirror to myself and become more conscious of workplace dynamics, such as 'in' and 'out' groups, intersectionality, positions of power and so much more.
As well as having to examine my own positionality, my biases, and how they might affect my leadership style and decision-making.
One of the most eye-opening lessons for me was the importance of actively seeking and valuing diverse perspectives.
As a leader, it's essential to create a psychologically safe space where everyone feels comfortable sharing their ideas.
And leaders must actively seek out and listen to the voices of those who are often marginalized in order to truly foster an inclusive culture.
I also really enjoyed learning about the fish-tank and how impactful organisational systems are.
Another key takeaway for me was around "unconscious bias" and the need to be aware of biases, and taking steps to counteract them and create a more inclusive environment.
My engagement in the course was sustained by its academic rigour, knowledge check assessments, self-paced learning, and highly interactive online sessions. The facilitators are superb and the materials world class!
As you can see, this course has been a valuable learning experience for me, and I'm excited to continue applying what I've learned in my leadership roles.
I encourage anyone who is passionate about leadership to consider taking an inclusive leadership course. It's an investment in yourself and in the people you lead.
About the author
Marie has over 27 years of experience in education and learning and development.
She has worked across the UK, Thailand, and the Cayman Islands; holding senior leadership and management roles at local, regional, national, and global levels in education, hospitality, optics, retail and legal sector.
A Fellow of the Institute of Leadership and Management and a lifetime member of the Cambridge Union Debating Society Marie is an animated individual who is passionate about lifelong learning for all.
About the Inclusive Leadership programme
Approved by the Institute of Learning and Management, our Inclusive Leadership programme can help you to improve employee wellbeing and productivity while fostering an inclusive workplace environment.
You will be supported in developing a toolbox of techniques to best manage the impact of leadership decisions and adapt to changing situations.
Find out more about the Inclusive Leadership programme on BPS Learn