I&D Now: Becoming Inclusive Leaders, October 20, 2020

From Margaret- Mary Wilson

Hi Everyone: As you are aware, numerous studies have shown that companies with diverse and inclusive environments achieve higher revenues, net incomes, and are more competitive in the marketplace. These companies are more successful in delivering on both shareholder return and societal return. We know our focus on I&D is not only the right thing to do, it is also good for business.

As leaders, we play a critical role in moving from saying the right thing to doing the right thing. As leaders, we are individually and collectively accountable for increasing the climate of inclusion on our teams and in our businesses. As leaders, we must leverage Our United Culture to ensure that everyone has a robust sense of belonging and can bring their true selves to work. As leaders, we have the ability – and the responsibility – to do the right thing now.

I continue to learn and think of ways to enhance my practice of inclusion in the workplace and across our business. Attached are two insightful resources:

• How to Be an Inclusive Leader: Your Role in Creating Cultures Where Everyone Can Thrive, by Jennifer Brown. This 15-minute summary provides an “Inclusive Leader Continuum” – a four-stage path executives can travel to become inclusive leaders.
• Inclusive Leadership Framework. This quick read from UnitedHealth Group offers six inclusive leadership behaviors and specific ways to implement them now.

I hope you take the time to review and think about how you will continue – or begin – to adopt and model some of these practical inclusive leadership tips. I look forward to advancing on our inclusive leadership journey together.

Thank you for your partnership.

Margaret 

Margaret-Mary Wilson, MD, MRCP, FNMCP, MBA

Chief Medical Officer & SVP

UnitedHealthcare Global