In our previous article “Why is Diversity in the Workplace Important? “, we talked about expanding the DEI concept in business today, and how it results in a sense of Belonging (DEIB). Creating a business culture of belonging requires a belief system and practices that are supported by all members of the organization. The CURE is a model for workplace inclusion focused on four key dimensions: Connection, Understanding, Representation, and Empathy, which all lead to Belonging. We start the conversation with “U,” Understanding. We must understand ourselves, our differences, and how we feel about differences before we can understand and connect with others.
The CURE Framework is structured on four critical pillars:
Connection
- Initiate our discovery process about other areas of difference.
- Proactively do our learning and begin listening to others and their experiences.
- Value different experiences and perspectives.
Understanding
- Begin by understanding our own differences.
- Get comfortable with the areas where we have held shame and hidden parts of ourselves.
- Share and model vulnerable conversations for others.
Representation
- Examine our circles and teams and think about representation.
- Consider whose voices we are hearing and whose we are not.
- How do we actively think about inclusion throughout the talent life cycle and with a leadership lens?
Empathy
- Build empathy by listening, validating, and letting others know we hear and see them.
- Listen so that people feel included and accepted.
- Empathy requires curiosity and the desire to understand others’ experiences.
Belonging is at the heart of the process. Employees feel they belong when we create a safe environment to unhide differences and learn from each other. Companies will then see increased productivity, improved teamwork, and greater loyalty to the organization. Employees feel that they belong, and cultures are strengthened.
___________________________________________________________________
We customize CURE for company cultures through workshops that reframe diversity and inclusivity to equally empower employees at all levels of the organization.
Learn more about unhiding differences in Ruth Rathblott’s book “Singlehandedly, Learning to Unhide and Embrace Connection,” now available on Amazon, or as an audiobook: Audible, Barnes & Noble, Ebooks, Google Play.
Ruth Rathblott works with organizations to transform their culture by embracing an inclusion mindset that allows employees to unhide and thrive, leading to increased productivity, engagement, and retention. For much of her life, Ruth’s limb difference served as an excuse for not living life fully and often prevented her from connecting with others. Learning how important unhiding is becomes a source of strength. When we “refuse to see” differences, we may mistakenly silence or alienate those we intend to support. Contact me.
1 Comment