HBR Guide to Being a Great Boss

CHAPTER 18

Get Over Your Fear of Talking About Diversity

by Daisy Auger-Dominguez

While 27% of chief diversity officers find themselves still having to make the case for diversity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace, the good news is that the majority of top leaders already understand how critical these efforts are.¹ Indeed, in my work in talent and diversity at Google, Disney, and other large firms, I’ve found many leaders eager for actionable frameworks and advice to create more inclusive cultures. But again and again I find one thing plaguing their attempts: fear.

These leaders are so terrified about messing up and saying the wrong thing to all their stakeholders—employees, board members, funders, clients, customers—or the wider world ...