Leadership today is about more than just managing tasks or achieving goals—it’s about creating workplaces where every individual feels they belong and are valued for their unique contributions. This is the essence of inclusive leadership, a transformative leadership style that is increasingly recognized as essential in our diverse and interconnected world.
What is inclusive leadership
Inclusive leadership is about recognizing, valuing, and leveraging diversity to create a sense of belonging and inclusion. Jennifer Brown (2019) defines inclusive leadership as “the intentional practice of embracing diversity and creating environments where everyone can thrive.” This leadership style requires a balance between promoting a sense of belonging—where people feel part of a team—and ensuring individuals are celebrated for their uniqueness.
Similarly, Sweeney and Bothwick (2016) describe inclusive leadership as “a relational leadership style in which leaders seek to meet the needs of diverse followers by creating an inclusive environment where individuals feel they belong and are uniquely valued.”
Inclusive leaders create psychologically safe environments where everyone feels empowered to speak up, innovate, and contribute without fear of judgment or exclusion. This approach is not just a moral imperative; it is a business necessity for fostering innovation, engagement, and high-performing teams.
Why inclusive leadership matters
Inclusive leadership is good for individuals and is proven to drive organizational success. Diverse teams led by inclusive leaders are more innovative, make better decisions, and are more engaged (Brown, 2019). In a rapidly changing and globalized world, organizations that embrace inclusive leadership are better positioned to thrive.
Moreover, inclusive leadership creates a ripple effect. When individuals feel they belong and are valued, they are more likely to extend the same to others, fostering a culture of inclusion that goes beyond the leader’s direct influence.
Key traits of inclusive leaders
Jennifer Brown (2019) highlights that inclusive leadership involves continuous learning and self-reflection. Inclusive leaders demonstrate humility, empathy, and an awareness of their biases. Building on this, Sweeney and Bothwick (2016) identify six traits that inclusive leaders consistently exhibit:
- Commitment: Dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion as core values.
- Courage: Willingness to address systemic barriers and challenge inequities.
- Cognizance of bias: Awareness of unconscious biases and actively mitigating their impact.
- Curiosity: A desire to understand different perspectives and experiences.
- Cultural intelligence: The ability to navigate and appreciate cultural differences.
- Collaboration: Creating spaces where diverse voices are heard and valued.
These traits are not reserved for those in formal leadership positions; they can be practiced by anyone willing to embrace an inclusive mindset.

Can anyone be an inclusive leader?
One of the most empowering aspects of inclusive leadership is that it is not tied to hierarchy. Inclusive leadership is about influence, not titles. Anyone can demonstrate inclusive leadership by creating environments where people feel respected and valued.
To be an inclusive leader, start with self-awareness. Reflect on your biases, privileges, and assumptions. Then take action by:
- Listening actively: Prioritize understanding over responding. Hear what others are truly saying.
- Amplifying voices: Use your platform to elevate those who are often marginalized.
- Building equity: Acknowledge systemic barriers and work to create fair opportunities for all.
- Repairing trust: When mistakes happen, acknowledge them and take steps to rebuild trust.
These small but intentional behaviors build a foundation for inclusive leadership that anyone can practice.
In other words
Inclusive leadership is for everyone. It’s not about perfection but progress. Each of us can take intentional steps to create spaces where others feel they belong and are valued for who they are. As Jennifer Brown (2019) emphasizes, inclusive leadership is a journey, not a destination. It starts with self-awareness and continues with actions that make inclusion part of our everyday interactions.
Whether you’re leading a team, supporting a peer, or simply aiming to create a more equitable world, you can lead inclusively. Because at its core, inclusive leadership is about this simple truth: making others feel seen, heard, and valued is something we can all do.
References
- Brown, J. (2019). How to Be an Inclusive Leader: Your Role in Creating Cultures of Belonging Where Everyone Can Thrive. Oakland, CA: Berrett-Koehler Publishers.
- Sweeney, B., & Bothwick, F. (2016). Inclusive Leadership: The Definitive Guide to Developing and Executing an Impactful Diversity and Inclusion Strategy. Pearson.