The Illusion of Inclusion: Global Inclusion, Unconscious Bias, and the Bottom Line

by Helen Turnbull

We may say we want to be inclusive, but what if we really don't? What if our brains are hard-wired for selfishness and similarity and not for diversity and altruism? Having a diverse workforce is no guarantee that the work environment is inclusive. Companies hire for diversity and manage for similarity. We hire people for their difference and then teach them directly and indirectly what they have to do to fit in to the corporate culture. The Illusion of Inclusion exposes a myriad of diverse reasons why people are not more fully engaged and offers you the key to unlock the "Geometry of Inclusion". This book takes the lid off Pandora's box and explores the complexity of inclusion; where affinity bias or "mini-me" syndrome and the need to fit in are unconsciously blocking our ability to be inclusive. It offers a road map and an easy to comprehend model on how to minimize the impact of unconscious and conscious biases in order to embed an inclusive organizational culture.

162 pages, Paperback

Published August 17, 2016

Reviews

[Becky Reese · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beyond Good Intentions

Dr. Helen Turnbull provides an engaging view into how we humans are prone to being less inclusive than we want and believe ourselves to be. Her well-researched text provides thought provoking anecdotes, often told with an endearing level of vulnerability, of how easy it is to remain unaware of how our actions affect others in unintended ways. She also provides several assessment tools or checklists that can help individuals and organizations to identify areas of focus for improvement in aligning behavior with intentions. The book is an accessible pathway for advancing inclusivity. These messages are much needed in an increasingly polarized world.

[Matt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thought-provoking. Definitely generated some awkward but necessary conversations with coworkers.

[Kerry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book.