Episode 18: The power of cognitive inclusion – your first step toward a future-proof workplace
Published on 4 February 2025 • Hosted by Dr Lisa Colledge
Disengagement. Talent shortages. Struggles to adapt.
What if I told you that these workplace challenges aren’t separate problems, but symptoms of a deeper issue?
And what if you could take one powerful, sustainable solution to address them all?
Most organizations rely on traditional diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives that focus on visible diversity—gender, race, or age. But research shows that what really drives adaptability, engagement, and innovation is cognitive diversity—the mix of thinking styles and problem-solving approaches within teams.
Yet, without cognitive inclusion, this diversity remains inactive, leading to:
🚨 Employees feeling disengaged and burned out.
🚨 Teams failing to leverage hidden talents.
🚨 Missed opportunities for innovation and adaptability.
Why cognitive inclusion is the key to your future workplace
Cognitive inclusion isn’t about compliance or checkbox diversity. It’s a leadership strategy that enhances collaboration, psychological safety, and problem-solving by creating a culture where all thinking styles can thrive.
The good news? You don’t need to overhaul your entire company overnight.
That’s where my signature 12-step program comes in. Each month, I introduce one small, manageable action that moves your team closer to becoming a cognitively inclusive powerhouse.
Step 1: reflecting on connections within your team
Before making changes, we need to build the foundation by understanding what’s working and what’s missing in your team’s connections.
What’s working well and should be protected?
Where are communication gaps causing friction?
Do some employees feel unheard—or do certain styles dominate conversations?
A real-world example: John, a leader in his company, discovered he was ignoring insights from half his team simply because their communication styles differed from his. By building his awareness of this behavior and learning to listen to these uncomfortable inputs, he dramatically improved his decision-making and team success.
By pausing to reflect on your team dynamics, you’re taking the first step toward a stronger, more engaged, and more adaptable workplace.
Want to dive deeper?
Listen to the podcast episode on this page: 12 steps to build resilient teams: engagement, talent, and innovation redefined.
Explore my free program, and sign up to receive Step 1 resources: Neuro-Inspired: 12 Steps to a Future-Proof Workplace Culture.
Your team’s potential is waiting—you just need to unlock it.
I'm Lisa, and I help leaders create inclusive cultures that embrace all neurostyles. By empowering every team member to contribute at their best, while fostering mental well-being, you will boost innovation, retention, and talent acquisition—leading to enhanced business performance.
Click here to learn more about how my services can transform your team.
