Leveraging Diversity

Leads and manages an inclusive workplace that maximizes the talents of each person to achieve the vision and mission of the organization.

Key Behaviors
  • Modifies communication and behavior based on an understanding of individual differences.
  • Treats all individuals with respect regardless of individual differences (e.g., race, gender, age, ethnicity, physical capabilities/disabilities, sexual orientation, religion).
  • Develops a knowledge and understanding of different cultures and backgrounds.
  • Builds collaborative and mutually beneficial working relationships with people regardless of their individual differences.
  • Utilizes an understanding of individual differences to communicate with, influence, and manage individuals (e.g., resolving conflict, building teams) throughout the organization.
  • Recognizes and communicates the value of diverse perspectives.
  • Fosters an environment of inclusion, where diverse thoughts are freely shared, respected and integrated.
  • Helps others increase their awareness and acceptance of individual differences.
  • Develops policies, procedures and values that encourage awareness and acceptance of diversity.
  • Recruits, develops, and retains a diverse, high quality workforce in an equitable manner.

Developmental opportunities for this competency are available from the NIH Training Center.