Gardening 101 for Leaders
Written by Michel Fabode
Every gardener has a vision. Some might dream of a pristine rose garden, each bloom identical in its splendor, while others yearn for a colorful medley of flowers, each unique but harmoniously coexisting. In the world of organizations, the gardener is the leader and the garden is the team. Too often, though, we neglect the importance of the soil – the culture. The soil for a pristine rose garden will not be the same as that of a garden filled with a diverse array of flowers.
Just as gardeners know that the right balance of nutrients, pH levels, and moisture can make or break a garden, leaders should recognize that if they are endeavoring to build a culture for a diverse team, the culture needs to be rich with understanding, inclusivity, and opportunities. Soil isn't static—it can degrade over time or be tainted. Similarly, an organization’s culture can be subtly eroded by biases, exclusivity, or misaligned values. To guard against this, leaders must conduct regular culture health checks, much like a gardener testing soil quality, to ensure the environment remains conducive to a diverse team with varied needs.
Anyone who's marveled at the rich tapestry of a diverse garden knows it's not just about aesthetics. Different plants bring distinct benefits, sometimes enriching the soil or shielding each other from pests. In the business realm, truly diverse teams aren't just great pictures for a company homepage —they're powerhouses of creativity, innovation, and resilience. Leaders striving for such a colorful medley in their teams should remember the holistic benefits diversity offers. Research consistently underscores that diverse teams are not only more innovative but also drive better decisions. Realizing these benefits, though, requires a willingness to invite and listen to myriad perspectives, embrace a variety of communication styles, and trust the expertise each individual brings to the table.
It's no secret that even the most exquisite gardens need constant care. A once-thriving plant can easily wither if neglected. Likewise, retaining and nurturing diverse talent isn't a one-time effort. Leaders must engage in continuous cultivation—be it through mentorship programs, professional development, or simply fostering open dialogues. And just as every seasoned gardener knows to adapt to changing seasons and plant needs, leaders must remain proactive and agile, tailoring the company's practices to its evolving talent mosaic.
In essence, leaders endeavoring to create organizations for diverse teams must be astute gardeners, constantly minding their culture soil to ensure it can support a rich tapestry of talent.
