Cesar Millan is a noted dog behaviorist who specializes in changing the conduct of aggressive dogs. His rehabilitation efforts with these four legged creatures were highlighted in a television series entitled “Dog Whisperer” which aired from 2004-2012.

In his New York Times bestseller “Be the Pack Leader,” he claims dogs want 3 things from their owners: (1) consistent energy; (2) clear messages and (3) appropriate tone and intent.

Those of us in the inclusion space face similar dilemmas when it comes to taming the ills of exclusion in our workplaces, families and communities. We should apply the above practices of the Dog Whisperer as we build work environments and social spaces that recognize and embrace differences.

Consistent Energy
One thing I try to do as an inclusion trainer is bring a consistent voice to what already is a difficult discussion. Inclusion conversations fuel secretion of cortisol in our brain which produces stress that has the potential to derail the dialogue before it even gets started.
 
If you are emotionally upset as you work for inclusion, most likely the folks you want to be more inclusive will get upset as well. Our fight or flight tendencies will take over as both sides shout over or ignore each other.
 
Clear Messaging
Since inclusion is such as complicated argument to begin with, it is important that inclusion advocates simplify as much as they can about the inherent value of inclusion. Our emotional brain has contempt for any type of change that forces us to revise our longstanding beliefs, biases and behaviors. Consequently, inclusion should chase a narrative that states while dealing with people and things that do not act like, talk like or look like us are challenging, it is very doable if folks are willing to put in the work.
 
Appropriate Tone and Intent
You cannot fake it till you make it when it comes to talking about inclusion. You can emphasize empty words and phrases like sensitivity, toleration and putting up with different people and things as people will see through this cheap inclusion language from a mile away.
 
On the other hand, you can frame the inclusion story as you are wrong and I am right. Traveling that road only buries the exclusion you are trying to ameliorate even deeper. We must remember with any courageous conversation; we have one shot to make a difference. If we fail to hit the bullseye or miss the target altogether, we have foregone an opportunity to make a difference that may never come around again.
 
Find your calm and assertive energy when it comes to doing the heavy lifting when it comes to being more inclusive. You will be surprised how the whispers of a safe emotional work environment will break through the loudness of a workplace culture that will say that is not how we do things around here.
 
As Cesar Millan would say, “If you can positively project the intention you desire through real strength and honesty, your dog will instantly react to that calm-assertive energy.”
 
There are no reasons we two legged creatures can’t do the same thing when it comes to whispering about inclusion.