Spread Empathy Widely Using Three Science-Based Methods
In the pursuit of fostering a culture of inclusivity, storytelling has emerged as a potent tool. This approach, when employed effectively, can humanise us and build the trust necessary for an inclusive workplace.
David Smith and Brad Johnson, authors of "Good Guys", emphasise the importance of leaders becoming active role models of allyship. By sharing their own experiences and vulnerabilities, they can foster a culture of inclusion. Mid-level managers, who may feel they lack the power to make a difference, can also leverage storytelling to bridge this gap.
One client operationalised storytelling through a storytelling toolkit, which significantly improved internal relationships and client engagement. Sharing personal stories about non-inclusive behaviours, for instance, can be an effective way to engage allies for women entrepreneurs in technology.
Storytelling can reshape thinking and is a necessary tool for building trust and making workplaces truly inclusive. Vulnerable phrases like "I used to think that too" or "Here's what shifted for me" can create psychological safety and encourage others to open up about their own fears and misconceptions.
Modeling is the best teacher for demonstrating behaviour to others. By sharing stories about demonstrating allyship behaviours, we can offer a window into other perspectives and inspire others to embrace similar actions. This can lead to a chain reaction, with more stories being shared and trust being built.
A notable example of this is a story about a school board election, where volunteering and engaging with an opponent through sharing different perspectives on education planted a seed of understanding. Sharing your own fears and barriers in conversations with people who share similar biases can role model a path forward for becoming better allies.
Storytelling can also help model nuanced behaviours of allyship, such as vulnerability and empathy. Being vulnerable in promoting allyship requires courage, but it can invite allies to share their mistakes or challenges in a safe learning environment.
John a powell, Director of UC Berkeley's Othering & Belonging Institute, believes storytelling is the most powerful tool we have. Allyship storytelling, in particular, can be a catalyst for change, leading to more stories and ultimately, a more inclusive workplace.
In conclusion, storytelling is a potent tool for accelerating modeling, reshaping thinking, and building trust. By sharing our stories, we can inspire others to take action, build connections, and create a more inclusive world.
