World Cup Lessons For The Inclusive Leader

The 2023 World Cup Celebratory Win has a lingering problematic memory marred by the inappropriate conduct/behaviors examination. To recap, Luis Rubiales, President of the Spanish Football Federation, kissed Jennifer Hermoso, one of the winners of the recent World Cup Final games. While Mr. Rubiales has said the kiss was consensual, Ms. Hermoso has stated otherwise. An investigation is ongoing, with the world watching and awaiting a resolution stabilizing the environment and setting a precedent for handling unwanted behaviors. As the story continues to unfold, several responses have occurred from Rubiales and other governing bodies, including issuing an apology, suspension, and resignation rumblings that are on and off again.

This subject presents a learning opportunity that inclusive leaders can learn from. But before doing so, let’s reframe the situation to parallel one that could occur in today’s workplace. Imagine a Senior Leader, excited by receiving a coveted company award, takes action flagged as inappropriate, gains visibility demands for reaction, and impacts the company brand. Outrage ensues from employees, consumers, and widely on social media platforms, and there’s an immediate expectation for corrective action. Indeed, this sounds plausible, as many organizations have had to handle conducts that impact culture.

As such, inclusive leaders today must stay ready, flexible, and adaptable to deal with scenarios that stretch their growth. Each day undoubtedly presents a new opportunity to lead inclusively and boldly. The principles of inclusion suggest:

1. Suspend judgment, giving people the benefit of the doubt. There are exceptions, of course, where egregious (i.e., hate-fueled) behaviors or situations will challenge our ability to do so.
2. Remain curious, sitting in different positions to have a better understanding. This approach allows for an increase in empathy.
3. Assume an upstanding role where we say something and do something when we see something amiss. In essence, take action towards inclusion.
4. Stay in a learning zone to embrace lessons on bolstering inclusive leadership prowess.

Now, let’s talk about the lessons we can glean from the World Cup Finals’ impasse about sexual misconduct from a senior executive.

Be a resolution driver.

Inclusive leaders can use their influence to push for the timely resolution of issues that shake cultural stability. While some may feel ill-placed in getting involved in dicey scenarios handled by investigative teams, there is an opportunity to engage to build trust in workplace communities.

Knowing the ins and outs of the organization’s code of conduct materials is pragmatic.

Use workplace hiccups as opportunities to tighten up inclusive practices. As leaders, we must examine our responsibilities to the audiences we serve. The Fifa Code of Ethics prohibits sexual misconduct and avoids actions that impact FiFa’s reputation. Inclusive Leaders can strive to be well-versed in expected behaviors for your organization long before scenarios requiring conduct strategies arise.

Prioritize wellness and wellbeing of employees amidst clean up of inclusion messes.

While the investigation continues, attention has turned to the implications and ramifications of Hermoso’s involvement. Inclusive Leaders note that demands on supporting organization efforts to ensure brands remain in tow can trump focus on impacted parties in a lesser hierarchy. As such, inclusive leaders can intentionally focus on providing access to mental health strategies and support.

Participate in a culture immersion.

The FIFA scenario presents an opportunity to understand cultural differences from afar better. Inclusive Leaders embrace gaps as opportunities to build skills. As such, resources like the book Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands can provide additional resources to understand Spanish culture better. What an apropos opportunity as we move towards celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month.