‘We utilise our differences to better achieve our goals and objectives’ – Marius Ciavola reflects on diversity

“We are all different and our differences can generate several points of view and contribute to creativity and innovation,” says Marius Ciavola, CEO of Tradeling a Dubai-based B2B eMarketplace.

Sharing his insights about diversity at the workplace and its value to the company, Mr Ciavola says “At Tradeling we believe in embracing diverse talent. Valuing each member of our team and providing inclusive leadership. We utilise our differences to better achieve our goals and objectives and make the workplace a fun environment.”

While the company has made a lot of progress in this space, the CEO says that it strives to go even further to achieve greater representation in its workforce.

Sharing his own personal tips to help other leaders embrace diversity, Mr Ciavola recommends asking for something from someone different other than the usual go-to person, ask the shy or introverted colleague for their input during a meeting, and get to know someone different from you by asking them to lunch or a coffee.

Also, “speak up when you hear inappropriate or disrespectful comments said in your presence; don’t assume the answer, ask questions to understand points of view that are different from yours,” and lastly, “monitor yourself and observe when your biases are getting in your way and commit to being consciously inclusive, respect differences, be accountable and embrace possibilities.”