Is Trump’s Leadership Style an Obstacle or Catalyst for Inclusivity?
Donald Trump’s leadership style stands in stark contrast to inclusive values. With a heavy focus on loyalty, rigid hierarchy, and an “us vs. them” mindset, his approach directly conflicts with the openness, collaboration, and diverse input that inclusive leadership requires. The “top-down” control he champions often shuts down dissent and discourages diverse perspectives, creating environments where innovation and inclusivity are stifled rather than supported.
Not Exactly Inclusive: The ‘Top-Down’ Model
Trump's approach models a “top-down” leadership style—marked by control, resistance to feedback, and a quick dismissal of dissent as disloyalty. This style simply doesn’t work for inclusive leadership, which thrives on openness and collaboration. Leaders who embrace control over collaboration limit the openness and empowerment that allow diverse voices to shape company culture. In organizations influenced by this approach, inclusivity often stalls out, as leaders shy away from the vulnerability and accountability that true inclusive practices demand.
3 Key Takeaways for Inclusive Leaders
Empower, Don’t Control: True inclusivity requires leaders to distribute power rather than consolidate it. Leaders need to empower people at all levels to participate in shaping the culture.
Value Diverse Perspectives: Unlike a “my way or the highway” approach, inclusive leadership flourishes when leaders actively seek out and value diverse opinions, ideas, and experiences.
Trust and Transparency: An inclusive leader builds trust by prioritizing open communication and transparency, reducing the fear of retaliation or exclusion for sharing different perspectives.
Lesson Learned: Leadership that listens beats leadership that leans on loyalty alone!
P.S. Want to explore how to balance authority and inclusion in your leadership style? Reach out to learn how my workshops can help turn your company’s diversity promise into a practice.
