The Lens Shift on Inclusion
Seven Lenses to See How Everyday Work Is Changing – A Series
We’ve been talking a lot about the hybrid workplace and what it’s going to take to create environments where people actually want to show up, be their best, and grow—whether they’re at home, in the office, or somewhere in between.
We believe that teams, leaders, and organizations need to start seeing through a new lens—a new pair of glasses, so to speak. The world of work has changed, and inclusion needs to change with it.
1. Create Conditions for Belonging
Inclusion today is all about belonging—a sense that people are seen, heard, and valued regardless of where or how they work. And we’re hearing that message more than ever.
This is true whether someone is in the office full time, fully remote, or working a flexible or hybrid schedule. Belonging is foundational, and it’s up to teams and leaders to help create those conditions.
2. Psychological Safety
Organizations that are prioritizing inclusion are embedding psychological safety into the way they lead. Yes, it’s about creating space for failure and learning—but it’s also about creating space for realness.
People need to feel safe to show up as their full selves—to talk about their work, their life, their challenges, and where they might need help or offer support.
Teams are asking questions like:
What’s pulling your attention outside of work?
Where could you use help?
Where can you offer help?
That’s how belonging is built—through conversations and cultures that make room for reality.
3. Inclusion Embedded in the Business Model
Inclusion isn’t just an initiative. It needs to be embedded into how we work.
Ask questions like:
Are our workflows and communications designed with all working styles in mind—in-office, remote, and hybrid?
Are we making sure everyone can contribute in the way that works best for them?
Do all roles really need to be on-site? Have we rethought that?
This is about reimagining work design through the lens of inclusion—not just convenience.
4. Micro-Practices of Inclusion
Inclusion also lives in the small, daily practices—the micro-moments that shape culture. That includes how we plan, how we invite, and how we communicate.
Questions to ask:
Who are we inviting into key decisions?
How are we updating people?
Are we leaving anyone out of hallway conversations?
Are we using tools and tech that keep everyone connected, regardless of where they are?
These everyday actions either build or erode the culture of inclusion.
A New Lens for Inclusion
Let’s shift inclusion beyond training and checklists. Instead, think about:
Psychological safety
Integrated inclusion practices
Decision-making that brings in more voices
Rethinking how and where work happens
We’re moving past “DEI training” as a stand-alone solution. Awareness is important—but we need to go further. Inclusion now means designing work with people’s real lives in mind, not asking people to fit their lives around work.
Thanks for tuning in to this lens on inclusion. Stay connected as we continue to explore the lenses needed to lead in today’s changing work environment.
Want to talk more about how these shifts apply to your team or organization?
Book a call, follow us on LinkedIn, or check out our latest blogs—we’d love to connect.
