What’s a Micro-Aggression?

Micro-aggressions are subtle behaviors that lead someone to feel devalued. We’re usually not aware of them until we consciously check ourselves. Examples include:

• being condescending or demeaning towards others;
• showing little interest in the opinions expressed by others;
• addressing others in unprofessional terms;
• excluding people from professional camaraderie;
• withholding valuable information from others;
• interrupting or speaking over others;
• taking credit for others’ ideas;
• doubting others even on matters over which they have responsibility;
• failing to welcome someone into a discussion even when others are aware of their presence.

Micro-affirmations on the other hand are visible signs of support, and include nodding, smiling and looking interested. 

Action: On teams, one way to fight against microaggressions is to establish Team Norms, based on the shared belief that sharing all perspectives will result in the best solution. Check your Team Norms. Are they built to reinforce the value of shared ideas and opinions? What can you do to make them more inclusive?

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This video has some clear examples of microaggressions. 

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“Leadership is a matter of how to be – not how to do it.” – Frances Hesselbein

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