Harnessing the Power of Storytelling in Fostering Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Change in organizations is inevitable and constant. For organizations undergoing change, that change can lead to uncertainty, discomfort, and resistance in employees. This chapter focuses on one change many companies are undergoing: fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace. While there are a number of factors that go into creating workplaces where people feel seen and valued, this chapter argues that storytelling can be an effective way to foster DEI change initiatives. The chapter uses recent research in neuroscience to explain how stories influence listeners. It looks at the role of storytelling in the context of persuasion. It concludes with suggestions for developing effective stories toward a more inclusive workplace.