Difference Makers audiobook cover - A Leader’s Guide to Championing Diversity on Boards

Difference Makers

A Leader’s Guide to Championing Diversity on Boards

Nicky Howe and Alicia Curtis

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Corporate CultureManagement & Leadership

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Difference Makers
Redefining Diversity+
Overcoming Bias+
Combating Groupthink+
Managing Emotions & Moods+
Building a Diverse Board+

Quiz — Test Your Understanding

Question 1 of 6
According to Nicky Howe and Alicia Curtis, what is the most foundational and accurate understanding of diversity in the workplace?
  • A. Ensuring equal statistical representation of gender and race across all departments.
  • B. Valuing the 'diversity of thought' that comes from people's unique perspectives and invisible traits.
  • C. Implementing strict quotas to guarantee minority representation on corporate boards.
  • D. Focusing primarily on visible differences to ensure a company physically looks diverse.
Question 2 of 6
Why is diversity considered an essential part of doing business in a 'VUCA' world?
  • A. Companies are legally required to meet diversity standards to operate globally.
  • B. Diverse companies receive higher tax incentives in volatile and uncertain markets.
  • C. Diverse leadership provides the adaptability and flexibility needed to navigate a constantly changing, complex global market.
  • D. Consumers will boycott companies that do not publicly display diverse hiring practices.
Question 3 of 6
Which of the following best describes 'outgroup homogeneity,' a form of bias that hinders workplace inclusion?
  • A. The tendency to prefer and favor people who share our own background and traits.
  • B. The subconscious association of certain groups with specific, stereotypical traits.
  • C. The readiness to believe that individuals in other groups are less complex than those in our own group.
  • D. The deliberate exclusion of minority groups from leadership positions.
Question 4 of 6
In Edward de Bono’s 'Six Thinking Hats' exercise, what is the purpose of the Black Hat?
  • A. To provide a sober, unbiased consideration of the facts.
  • B. To ensure all the other hats are being used correctly during the meeting.
  • C. To encourage uninhibited creativity without the fear of being judged.
  • D. To represent pessimism and provide a chance to discuss the downsides of a decision.
Question 5 of 6
According to life coach Alan Sieler, how does opposing 'Facticity' (things beyond your control) affect a person's mood?
  • A. It leads to a mood of resentment.
  • B. It leads to a mood of resignation.
  • C. It leads to a mood of anxiety.
  • D. It leads to a mood of ambition.
Question 6 of 6
What do the authors identify as the best way to avoid the harmful effects of 'tokenism' when bringing diverse newcomers onto a board?
  • A. Constantly reminding the rest of the board why the newcomer was selected.
  • B. Giving newcomers real responsibilities from the get-go so they can make an immediate impact.
  • C. Easing newcomers in slowly by keeping them off major decision-making committees for the first year.
  • D. Lowering performance expectations so diverse candidates feel less pressure.

Difference Makers — Full Chapter Overview

Difference Makers Summary & Overview

Difference Makers (2016) makes a compelling case for the value of diversity at the top of today’s companies. Written by two leading champions of inclusive leadership, these blinks guide readers through personal and boardroom strategies to overcome bias, foster open dialogue and spark innovation by getting more voices to the table.

Who Should Listen to Difference Makers?

  • Founders and entrepreneurs
  • Team leaders, company managers and directors
  • Anyone interested in best business practices

About the Author: Nicky Howe and Alicia Curtis

Nicky Howe is a CEO who specializes in helping individuals, organizations and communities reach their potential. She holds degrees in business administration and management and teaches at the School of Business at the University of Notre Dame Australia.

Alicia Curtis is one of Western Australia’s leading social and business entrepreneurs and an award-winning speaker and leadership facilitator. She holds a degree in business leadership and was named in the Australian Financial Review and Westpac’s 100 Women of Influence List in 2014.

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