How to Make Your Business Values More Inclusive
At Henderson Properties, we’re all about universal love and acceptance. We’re not perfect, but our business values lead us to build an inclusive culture in everything we do. We believe in being ethical and supporting our community. We aim to create a space that reflects our values while welcoming everyone, no matter their background.
When Phil and I started this journey, we wanted a company that cared for people, not just properties. Whether it’s our employees, clients, or tenants, we treat everyone with respect and kindness.
What Is Inclusivity, and Why Does it Matter?
Inclusivity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the heart of a supportive and productive workplace. For us, inclusivity means making sure everyone feels valued. When folks feel included, they’re more motivated and loyal.
This extends to our tenants, too. We go out of our way to ensure that all potential renters feel welcome. Inclusivity benefits our team and tenants and strengthens our reputation and client relationships.
Embrace Cultural Literacy and Sensitivity
Inclusivity begins with understanding and respecting people from different backgrounds, faiths, and cultures at work and among our tenants. We promote mutual respect by encouraging people to talk about their values. We work hard to create an environment where everyone feels comfortable expressing themselves, which can make a big difference.
Here are five ways you can foster inclusivity at your workplace:
1. Set Clear Policies
Your everyday business practices should support your principles—and those values should aim to include everyone rather than exclude anyone.
We focus on People-First policies to make sure everyone feels valued. These practices extend to how we rent properties, making sure everyone feels welcome. It’s about setting a standard that everyone can look up to.
2. Foster Open Dialogue
Constantly cultivate a fear-free culture where everyone is comfortable bringing their true self to work. Open dialogue is key—we regularly encourage our staff to share their thoughts, ideas, and concerns, knowing they’ll be heard and respected. By keeping lines of communication open, we build trust and a sense of belonging, which makes our team stronger and helps them stick together.
3. Support Diverse Needs
We recognize that supporting inclusivity means addressing a variety of needs. This includes flexible work schedules to accommodate different lifestyles and responsibilities. We also strive to make our properties accessible to everyone, ensuring that physical limitations do not keep anyone from finding a home with us.
4. Broaden Hiring Practices
Inclusivity starts with who we bring into the fold. We aim to hire people who reflect the broad spectrum of society. This enriches our work culture and helps us serve a diverse clientele more effectively.
If you choose coachable people and give them the tools to succeed, there shouldn’t be any issue that can’t be fixed as long as both employee and employer have the same positive mindset.
5. Lead by Example
As leaders, we set the tone for inclusivity. By demonstrating inclusive behaviors and making inclusivity a priority in our decision-making, we inspire our team to do the same. Leadership isn’t just about making decisions; it’s about living the values we want to see in our business.
Roll Up Your Sleeves
Keeping an inclusive culture going takes commitment and effort. Start small, but stay consistent in your efforts. Inclusivity benefits the broader community beyond the workplace.
It also works both ways: both from the employer to the employee and vice versa. The beauty of a small business is that we can make sure everyone on the team can be seen and heard. Sometimes, we misperceive someone based on our own blind spots. We should always get to know the people who work for us—and those we work for or serve.
From staff meetings to tenant interactions, we aim to meet people where they are. It’s not always easy, and sometimes we’re misunderstood. But with a lot of good intentions and a bit of grace, we can create a place where everyone feels like they belong.