How to Be an Inclusive Leader Book Summary

In "How to Be an Inclusive Leader," Jennifer Brown unpacks the vital responsibilities of leadership in fostering diversity and belonging within organizations. She introduces a transformative framework, empowering leaders to navigate their own biases and cultivate an inclusive culture. Through compelling real-world examples and actionable strategies, Brown encourages readers to embrace vulnerability as a strength. As the landscape of workplaces evolves, this guide reveals how true inclusivity can drive innovation and engagement. Prepare to embark on a journey of self-discovery and impactful leadership that reshapes not just teams, but entire organizations.

By Jennifer Brown

Published: 2019

"Inclusive leadership is about fostering a sense of belonging for everyone."

Book Review of How to Be an Inclusive Leader

We know why diversity is important, but how do we drive real change at work? Diversity and inclusion expert Jennifer Brown provides a step-by-step guide for the personal and emotional journey we must undertake to create an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. Human potential is unleashed when we feel like we belong. That's why inclusive workplaces experience higher engagement, performance, and profits. But the reality is that many people still feel unable to bring their true selves to work. In a world where the talent pool is becoming increasingly diverse, it's more important than ever for leaders to truly understand how to support inclusion. Drawing on years of work with many leading organizations, Jennifer Brown shows what leaders at any level can do to spark real change. She guides readers through the Inclusive Leader Continuum, a set of four developmental stages: unaware, aware, active, and advocate. Brown describes the hallmarks of each stage, the behaviors and mind-sets that inform it, and what readers can do to keep progressing. Whether you're a powerful CEO or a new employee without direct reports, there are actions you can take that can drastically change the day-to-day reality for your colleagues and the trajectory of your organization. Anyone can—and should—be an inclusive leader. Brown lays out simple steps to help you understand your role, boost your self-awareness, take action, and become a better version of yourself in the process. This book will meet you where you are and provide a road map to create a workplace of greater mutual understanding where everyone's talents can shine.

Similar books you might like →

Showing 8 of 22 similar books

Similar Book Recommendations →

Aileen Lee's Book Recommendations

Aileen Lee is a distinguished venture capitalist and founder of Cowboy Ventures, a seed-stage venture capital firm that invests in early-stage technology companies. She is widely known for coining the term "unicorn" to describe startups valued at over $1 billion, significantly impacting how the tech industry views high-growth companies. Lee's keen eye for innovation and her advocacy for diversity in tech have made her a prominent figure in Silicon Valley. Beyond her financial acumen, she has authored insightful articles on entrepreneurship and startup culture, contributing valuable perspectives to business literature. Lee's work continues to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs and investors.

Business and LeadershipInspiring Reads

Adam Grant's Book Recommendations

Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.

Business and LeadershipEducationSelf-Improvement

Chris Powers's Book Recommendations

Chris Powers is a real estate entrepreneur, investor, and founder of Fort Capital, a real estate investment firm based in Texas. Powers specializes in acquiring and developing industrial and commercial properties, focusing on value-add opportunities in rapidly growing markets. He is also the host of The FORT Podcast, where he interviews entrepreneurs, investors, and real estate professionals about their experiences and insights. Powers is a strong advocate for building communities and fostering long-term growth in real estate development. His work has positioned him as a leader in the Texas real estate market and a trusted voice in the industry.

Business and LeadershipInspiring Reads

Allen Gannett's Book Recommendations

Allen Gannett is an acclaimed author and entrepreneur, best known for his influential book, "The Creative Curve," which explores the science behind creativity and innovation. As the founder of TrackMaven, a marketing analytics company, Gannett has significantly impacted the fields of data-driven marketing and business intelligence. His insights on creativity have been featured in major publications like Forbes and Fast Company. Gannett is also a sought-after speaker, sharing his expertise at conferences worldwide. With his work, he bridges the gap between creativity and data, offering valuable guidance for both individuals and organizations.

Creativity and InnovationBusiness and Leadership

Graham Duncan's Book Recommendations

Graham Duncan is a celebrated author known for his profound exploration of human resilience and social justice. His debut novel, "Echoes of Silence," received critical acclaim for its poignant portrayal of marginalized communities and won the prestigious Man Booker Prize. Duncan's insightful essays on contemporary issues have been featured in leading literary magazines, cementing his reputation as a thought leader. He is also an advocate for literacy programs, dedicating his time to fostering reading initiatives in underserved areas. Duncan's work continues to inspire and challenge readers worldwide, making him a significant figure in modern literature.

Inspiring ReadsActivistMemoirs and Biographies

David Cancel's Book Recommendations

David Cancel is a prominent entrepreneur and author best known for his influential work in the tech and startup communities. As the CEO and co-founder of Drift, a leading conversational marketing platform, he has revolutionized how businesses engage with their customers online. Cancel has also authored insightful books such as "Hypergrowth," which offers valuable strategies for scaling startups rapidly. His contributions extend beyond literature as he frequently shares his expertise through speaking engagements and his popular podcast, "Seeking Wisdom." David Cancel's innovative ideas and practical advice continue to inspire and guide entrepreneurs worldwide.

Business and LeadershipSuccess Stories and Life LessonsInspiring Reads

Marc Andreessen's Book Recommendations

Marc Andreessen is an American entrepreneur, software engineer, and venture capitalist, best known for co-creating the Mosaic web browser, the first widely-used web browser, and co-founding Netscape. Andreessen is also the co-founder of Andreessen Horowitz, one of Silicon Valley’s most prominent venture capital firms, where he invests in groundbreaking technology companies like Facebook, Airbnb, and Coinbase. He is a thought leader on the impact of technology and innovation, often sharing his views on the future of the internet and startups. His contributions to the development of the web and the tech ecosystem have made him one of the most influential figures in technology.

Technology and FutureBusiness and Leadership

Charlie Munger's Book Recommendations

Charlie Munger is an American investor, businessman, and philanthropist, best known as the vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, where he partners with Warren Buffett. Renowned for his insights on investment strategies and mental models, Munger has significantly influenced the world of finance. His notable literary contributions include "Poor Charlie's Almanack," a compilation of his speeches and writings that distill his wisdom on decision-making and business principles. Munger's work emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary thinking and continuous learning. Beyond his financial acumen, he is celebrated for his charitable efforts, particularly in education and healthcare.

Business and LeadershipMoney MattersInspiring Reads

Showing 8 of 23 related collections

Inclusive leadership is about fostering a sense of belonging for everyone.

How to Be an Inclusive Leader

By Jennifer Brown