The way we work with others – and listening to diverse voices in the planning and delivery of our work – is important in delivering effective outcomes.

With work being delivered across boundaries, geographies and cultures, it’s important that people are listened to, and enabled to work together. And as people professionals, we have a key role to play in working collaboratively and inclusively, as well as encouraging, facilitating and setting up cross-boundary working, building high-trust relationships, and managing conflict constructively.

Police now case study: The
beat generation

In just three years, the Police Now graduate leadership development programme has already turned out 650 coppers. And the results have been arresting.

Police now case study: The beat generation
Callout Image

Working inclusively standards

Each standard progresses through four levels of impact. Which level do you most embody in your day-to-day work?

Foundation level Associate level Chartered Member level Chartered Fellow level
At this level you will: At this level you will: At this level you will: At this level you will:
Inclusivity Show sensitivity and respect to others Get to know people as individuals so you can work together more effectively Role-model and advocate the value of including others and embracing difference Foster an inclusive culture which unites people, whatever their differences
Valuing diversity Demonstrate openness to diverse views and opinions Actively seek and listen to diverse views and opinions Explore and interpret a diverse range of perspectives and views Value and integrate diverse perspectives when creating people strategy
Building relationships Build positive working relationships with immediate colleagues Build purposeful working relationships with and collaborate with wider colleagues Build collaborative relationships across organisation boundaries, cultures and other disciplines Build strategic relationships and partnerships across professions, geographies and organisations
Collaborative working N/A N/A Facilitate connections and joint-working across teams, disciplines and functions Broker collaborations across and outside organisations to progress shared agendas
Sharing knowledge Share data and information to inform work in your area Readily share your knowledge and expertise with others to solve problems Proactively share knowledge, experience and expertise to co-create solutions across boundaries Create a culture of knowledge, experience and expertise sharing
Conflict resolution Handle difficult situations calmly and contribute to finding a way forward Support others to resolve conflict and build trust before issues escalate Coach and enable others to resolve conflict and build trust within teams and functions Coach and influence senior leaders to build trust and cohesion
Psychological safety Ask for help, admit mistakes, and share concerns and ideas with others Encourage others to recognise when they need help, to admit mistakes, and share concerns and ideas Create and maintain an environment where others feel safe to admit mistakes, share ideas and challenge ways of working Proactively build and maintain a culture that embraces psychological safety, honesty and openness

Tools and resources to help you develop

Assess your level, choose
your learning

Use our self-assessment tool to assess yourself against any area of the Profession Map. We’ll recommend relevant learning and resources to help you create your own professional development pathway. 

Full self-assessment tool (exclusive to CIPD members) Try our 'lite' self-assessment tool (free for everyone)
Callout Image

Next: Commercial drive

Using a commercial mindset, demonstrating drive and personal responsibility to create value

Continue to Commercial drive

The Profession Map

Download the full set of standards
491.7 KB
Download a one-page overview of the Profession Map
PDF document 686.8 KB

CIPD Trust

Tackling barriers to work today whilst creating inclusive workplaces of tomorrow.

Find out more

Connect
and learn

We offer a range of ways to stay connected, from events to networking, workshops and webinars.

Get involved

Explore our related content

Podcast

HR People Pod

The CIPD's fortnightly podcast brings together top HRDs, CPOs and business leaders to look behind the news headlines and current topics impacting HR practices

Listen now
Guide
People manager guide: Inclusive recruitment

Practical guidance for managers to create an inclusive environment, avoid bias and ensure an inclusive recruitment process.

Guide
Inclusive recruitment: Guide for people professionals

A step by step guide for employers to ensure fair processes are set up to attract a more diverse talent pool

Guide
Managing drug and alcohol misuse at work

Practical advice for employers on managing and preventing drug and alcohol misuse at work

For Members
See all resources
The Profession Map

Make the most of the Profession Map

The Profession Map is for everyone in our profession – individuals and teams, members and non-members. Learn more about the Profession Map and how you can use it. 

Profession Map
Explore the Profession Map

Explore the purpose, values, knowledge and behaviours at the heart of our profession

Profession Map
The Profession Map

How the international standard works for all people professionals

Profession Map
Find your level with the Profession Map

Find your current level of knowledge and experience and the next step in your career

Profession Map
The Profession Map FAQs

Check out our FAQs on the Profession Map, membership, and qualifications

The Profession Map overview