When we say “culture,” what do we really mean?

It’s not just about nationality or ethnicity. Culture shows up in how we communicate, how we make decisions, and what we expect from leadership. It’s shaped by race, gender, ability, generation, industry, social class — every experience that informs the way we show up at work.

Most leaders want to do the right thing. They want to lead inclusively, build trust, and create space for diverse perspectives. But the fear of getting it wrong can feel paralyzing.

At the same time, organizations can’t afford for leaders to hesitate. Employees and teams deserve to feel seen, valued, and heard.

So, how do you get it right?