Have you ever been in a situation at work where something someone said or did felt off, but you couldn’t quite put your finger on why? These could be a microaggressions.

Microaggressions are subtle, often unintentional, words or actions that communicate negative biases toward a person’s race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or other identity group.  Just because they’re subtle doesn’t mean they’re harmless. Over time, these microaggressions can create a hostile work environment and have a significant impact on employees’ well-being.

The Effect of Microaggressions

• Feeling Isolated and Excluded: Microaggressions can make employees feel like they don’t belong or that their experiences are unimportant.
• Reduced Confidence and Self-Esteem: Constant subtle digs can chip away at a person’s sense of self-worth and ability.
• Decreased Job Satisfaction and Performance: A toxic work environment can lead to burnout and hinder productivity.

Addressing Microaggressions Constructively

If you experience a microaggression, here are some tips for addressing it:

• Take a Breath: It’s important to stay calm and collected before responding.
• Educate, Don’t Accuse: Explain how the comment or action made you feel, and why it was microaggressive.
• Focus on the Future: The goal is to create a more inclusive workplace, so focus on moving forward.

Bystanders can also play a role:

• Offer Support: Let the target know you witnessed the incident and that you don’t condone it.
• Speak Up (if appropriate): If the situation feels safe, you can politely point out the microaggression to the person who made it.

Building a More Inclusive Workplace

The best way to combat microaggressions is to prevent them from happening in the first place. Here’s what organizations can do:

• Diversity and Inclusion Training: Educate employees about microaggressions and how to recognize and address them.
• Clear Policies and Procedures: Establish clear guidelines on respectful behavior and how to report microaggressions.
• Fostering Open Communication: Encourage open dialogue about diversity and inclusion.

Microaggressions are a reality in many workplaces. By recognizing them, understanding their impact, and taking steps to address them, we can create a more respectful and inclusive work environment for everyone.

To learn more about diversity and inclusion in the workplace, visit the India Diversity Forum website and join the conversation around workplace DEI practices.