Developing and growing as a leader requires plenty of introspection. But as many excellent leaders have learned, true learning involves ongoing, consistent effort — and there is really no end to the amount of growth you can experience.
Whether you’re already aware of your personal biases or recognize the need for further exploration into how you (and your company) relate to others, consider these resources, courtesy of Book Reviews by the Reluctant Retiree.
Pick Up a Good Book
Reading is an excellent way to explore leadership topics at your own pace. When you consider how confronting some topics can be, it may be ideal to start your journey with a less confrontational format of learning. The following books are helpful resources, regardless of where you are in your journey to uncovering and addressing complex workplace issues:
- Dive into the topic of hidden prejudice and racial issues in America (and elsewhere) with Jennifer L. Eberhardt Ph.D.
- Discover ways you can work toward fighting bias in your personal (and professional) life with Dolly Chugh.
- Extend your exploration of bias as it relates to your leadership responsibilities in the workplace.
Learn from Others
When it comes to organizational efforts, diversity is a crucial strategy for growth and progress. But implementing diversity in your workplace or among your team can be a challenge. Opening your mind to others’ experiences and how organizations approach diversity can guide your own actions.
- Approach others’ experiences with an open mind and a flexible perspective.
- Read up on recognizing the bias ecosystem and how it impacts your perceptions of — and actions at — the workplace.
- Understand why many diversity programs fail and how to circumvent those issues in your organization.
Embrace Interactive Learning
Books and articles are a helpful way to begin exploring challenging topics. But an interactive course or experience could serve as the next step in the process of recognizing and changing your personal and professional perceptions. From more general courses in business to specific training for the reduction of biased behavior in the workplace, consider these options:
- Consider whether an online education may provide the opportunity to improve leadership skills at your own pace without disrupting your current career path.
- Explore resources to help you become more conscious of unintentionally harmful hiring practices — and avoid them.
Leadership is less a goal and more of a journey, as these resources prove. Throughout your experiences as the leader of a team or organization, you’ll encounter many opportunities for improvement and enlightenment. A mindset toward growth is perhaps the most crucial resource for true leaders.
Book Reviews by the Reluctant Retiree is the product of an unreformed bookworm who never lost her love of reading. Reach out today to share your own experiences and book recommendations!
Photo via Unsplash
This post has been guest authored by Natalie Jones of homeownerbliss.info