Category: People

Competency: Valuing Inclusion

Competency Definition: The ability to recognize, appreciate, and support the contributions, perspectives, and experiences of all individuals to improve outcomes across teams and organizations.

Abbreviation in Louisiana Jobs: VI - 26


Valuing Inclusion

Competency Behaviors: Specific, observable actions demonstrating the competency

Forming


Struggles to demonstrate the competency; needs guidance and practice.
  • Dismisses or overlooks perspectives different from their own
  • Stays within their comfort zone; makes little effort to engage with teammates from different backgrounds or perspectives
  • Uses biased language or behaviors that undermine inclusion
  • Views inclusion as someone else’s responsibility; unaware of their impact on others

Improving


Shows growth and increasing confidence but not yet consistently independent

Successful


Demonstrates the competency independently and reliably in routine situations
  • Actively seeks out a range of perspectives and experiences; creates opportunities for all team members to contribute
  • Invites participation from all team members, leveraging different viewpoints to strengthen solutions and drive innovation
  • Supports an inclusive environment by avoiding biased language and behaviors
  • Takes personal responsibility for fostering a inclusive team culture; recognizes how their behavior influences others

Exceeds


Applies the competency independently in challenging or high-impact situations, adding value or insight

Exceptional


Demonstrates subject-matter expertise, serves as a role model, and elevates standards.
  • Proactively encourages engagement from all team members; fosters a culture of belonging that strengthens collaboration and performance
  • Builds inclusive relationships by ensuring all voices are heard and fostering equitable participation
  • Identifies and addresses behaviors or practices that may unintentionally exclude others
  • Models inclusive behaviors that build a culture of belonging; strengthens morale, trust, and team engagement