My definition of what “inclusive” means and the extent to which having an inclusive
culture impacts how I define a positive work environment.
Employee performance and engagement is highly threatened in any organization that is
void of a positive culture, Inclusive, and positive working environment (Deutser, B. 2018).
Inclusive in my opinion implies an ability to integrate/include relevant resources needed for the
successful execution of a well-defined project/goal. Inclusivity is materialized when all
stakeholders notably; managers, employees, supervisors, and clients are involved in the plans to
achieve organizational objectives. An inclusive and positive culture is built on the foundation
of non-discrimination where people of different backgrounds are recognized and respected for
their specific roles in the workplace. In an inclusive workplace, there is a degree of strategic
alignment whereby employees have a sense of belonging, and a voice to share their thoughts
and ideas.
Implementing an inclusive culture impacts my definition of a positive work environment
in the aspect of mutual respect whereby subordinates are valued and given a listening ear
by top management during decision making. Deutser B. (2018) states, “employee
engagement decreases when they see a disconnect between the corporate vision and
operational realities”. (Deutser, B. 2018, Great Leaders build and drive great cultures,
P.6). With an inclusive culture in place, I will further define a positive work environment
as one dominated by effective leadership, transparency, employee empowerment, more
resilient cultures, and positive relationships (Cabrera, 2012).
My experience of a positive and inclusive work environment and the factors that may
distract from it.
While working as project coordinator for a multinational Home services company, I
witnessed an environment that fully incorporates the fundamental strategies needed to attract
and maintain a positive workplace. Factors that made the environment inclusive and positive
includes among others; cordial interactions/relationships amongst employees and managers,
transparent communication (employees’ consent were sought before taking important/critical
decisions), and employee empowerment. No good deed/exceptional performance of an
employee went without recognition. Cabrera (2018) identifies empowerment as “the best way
to help employees achieve their goals. Empowerment involves clarity, support, and
autonomy” (Cabrera E. F., 2012, The six essentials of workplace positivity. P.55).
Despite the prevalence of a positive work environment experienced in this
organization,
they however existed an issue with employee wellbeing that needed improvement. Meaning
and well-being as described by Cabrera (2012) is an indispensable essential of Workplace
Positivity. In today’s competitive and digital landscape, no organization should compromise
employee’s wellbeing on aspects relating to; insurance (health benefits), Fun work
environments, and work-life fit (Cabrera, 2012).
Actions the manager took or failed to take that contributed to the
climate.
More than mere promotions, income raises, and job security, employees attribute
unparallel value to meaning and wellbeing (Cascio, 2003). The Manager took great initiatives
to motivate the employees by recognizing and congratulating them for their hard work.