The most important responsibility as a leader is to create an inclusive workplace where employees feel valued, included and supported. Communication is at the heart of all relationships and leaders should foster an environment where all employees feel like they “have a voice.”
As a leader, I feel it is important to have an honest conversation with yourself and be aware of personal unconscious biases when it comes to recruitment and hiring and overall workplace inclusion. Take time to seek out available resources to educate yourself on the topics surrounding diversity, equity and inclusion and learn how to mitigate personal biases.
Arvest Bank has made great strides in creating a culture of inclusion and belonging. Every week a Friday Coffee Break is offered virtually for all employees. The weekly series hosts a variety of topics all centered around diversity, equity and inclusion. Arvest also formed Associate Impact Groups, which are groups led by the underrepresented demographics within the organization.