HBR IdeaCast How Workplaces — Not Women — Need to Change to Improve Equality
4 snips
Mar 3, 2020 Michelle King, Director of Inclusion at Netflix and author of 'The Fix,' advocates for a transformative shift in workplace culture to foster genuine gender equality. She critiques the ineffectiveness of current diversity training and outlines the systemic barriers hindering women from leadership roles. King emphasizes the importance of self-reflection among leaders, urging them to recognize their privileges and commit to allyship. By dismantling structural obstacles and creating inclusive environments, organizations can improve equality for all.
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The 'Doesn't Fit In' Excuse
- Michelle King recalls a female leader consistently overlooked for promotion despite stellar qualifications.
- The CFO admitted she "didn't fit in" due to her appearance, highlighting systemic bias.
The Prototype Problem
- Organizations often operate with an implicit prototype for success, typically a man with dominant, assertive traits.
- This prototype creates barriers for those who differ, especially women, hindering advancement despite capabilities.
Acknowledge and Educate
- Leaders must first acknowledge inequality exists, then educate themselves on its workings.
- Actively listen to women's experiences and reflect on personal behaviors contributing to inequality.
