Complete Video Library
Accurate Communication - A Quick Conversation
In New York, taxi means a “black and yellow,” in India a “rickshaw,” in Thailand a “tuk tuk,” and in Haiti a “tap tap.” Travelers in foreign countries can be very surprised by another culture’s definition of taxi. Therefore, even with the most common of words, understanding the context in which that word is used is critical to understanding the significance behind what is being said, whether communicating across the world or across the hall.
Acknowledge Vulnerabilities - A Quick Conversation
Hermit Crabs live in empty seashells. As they grow they have to find larger shells to move into. In the search for a new shell, the crab is particularly vulnerable to predators. When organizations undergo growth and change, such as becoming more diverse, it often challenges employees to grow in new ways. Just as the crab feels vulnerable when it changes shells, employees in this time of transition may feel particularly susceptible.
Adapt to Encourage Growth - A Quick Conversation
Whales possess the ability to adapt what they hear and then make it their own. Adaptive communication is a skill that is also critical to organizational growth. Keeping something the same just “because this is the way we have always done it” hinders an organization from innovating and progressing.
Adversity Creates Inspiration - A Quick Conversation
When diverse teams come together, there can be conflict if there is a lack of understanding and trust among team members. When there is a lack of trust, the team is fighting its differences instead of embracing them. When teams embrace the challenges that come with differences, the differences can be leveraged for inspiration and growth.
Build a Foundation for Growth - A Quick Conversation
Navel oranges are neither native to Florida nor a natural tree. Navels are a graft of two citrus trees, the root stock and the bud wood. Both these parts contribute different, but essential resources that are necessary in order to produce sweet oranges. Oftentimes, behind the scenes tasks are overlooked as being nonessential; however, they are a vital component to the health and productivity of the team.
Build an Army of Many - A Quick Conversation
When teams are working together, there are many roles that are vital to the success of the team, and yet, they are not visible to most people. When building effective, inclusive teams, create the opportunities to utilize the contributions of all team members in accomplishing team goals. Take time to stop and acknowledge the work done behind the scenes to accomplish team goals.
Build On The Collective Effort - A Quick Conversation
The survival of a hive of honeybees is dependent upon the collaborative and collective efforts of every bee. The work of the hive is divided into specific tasks, each with designated worker bees. Only when every bee is doing its work can the hive stockpile the honey needed to survive the cold winter. A company is like a beehive that depends upon the collective effort of all of its employees. It is critical that each employee understands their role and how it contributes to the success and of the company.
Challenge What Needs To Be Changed - A Quick Conversation
There are times when faced with the choice of following the rules or fighting for a principal such as equality, that a fight against the rules is the right action to take. When working in a diverse environment, pay attention for opportunities to fight for the principal of inclusion instead of following the unspoken rule of “that is the way it has always been done.”
Craft Your Message With Purpose - A Quick Conversation
An enduring whimsical tradition that many people are familiar with is the act of placing a written message in a bottle and tossing it into the sea. The composer of the message has no idea who is going to receive the message or when they might get it -or if anyone will at all. Not knowing the end recipient of the message limits the ability to communicate with intention. Communication across differences is often done in a similar fashion.
Create A Blueprint - A Quick Conversation
When constructing a skyscraper, it is of the utmost importance to have properly designed and vetted blueprints. These blueprints serve as the authoritative guide to the thousands of decisions that must be made in order to construct a working, unified building. Much like the construction of a skyscraper, the task of starting a new diversity initiative requires a carefully drawn up blueprint, or diversity strategy, that provides the ultimate vision for the company.
Create Structure to Help Bridge Barriers - A Quick Conversation
Foosball is a tabletop soccer game featuring players that are fixed in position, meaning that each player can only cover a predetermined area. Flexibility, adapting, or helping out are all out of the question. This lack of flexibility is similar in some ways to teams that are spread out over multiple locations or across borders, as their interactions are also limited in a predetermined way. The lack of face-to-face interaction can reduce the team’s ability to adjust and adapt as quickly as a team that is located all at one site.
Create Your Own Opportunities - A Quick Conversation
When working on diverse teams, sometimes you have to create your own opportunities by putting forth new ideas, proposing collaborations, and building networks that will help accomplish your goals.
Cultural Quick Tips - A Quick Conversation
Work forces around the world are diversifying daily. Understanding the implications of a diversified workplace or marketplace is critical for any organization. A company that lacks the ability to attract and retain diverse employees risks dulling its competitive edge. Being proactive about assessing and understanding demographic trends allows an employer to prepare for change rather than react to a trend after the fact.
Differences Create Insights - A Quick Conversation
When working on teams, having a different point of view can provide powerful insight, if people feel respected enough to share that idea. If the team lacks respect for individuals then great ideas won’t be shared. Being respectful of others’ points of view is the first step to developing powerful teams.
Encourage Greatness - A Quick Conversation
Ziauddin Yousafzai is a Pakistani educator who broke tradition when his daughter was born, by adding his daughter’s name to the family tree – the first girl in 300 years. The impact of Ziauddin’s choice to break tradition and educate girls had a global impact many years later when his daughter became the youngest winner of the Nobel Peace Prize. Like the rearing of a world famous daughter, creating powerful teams with high impact does not happen in a single day.
Explore Unchartered Territories - A Quick Conversation
America’s best-known Colorado River explorer was John Powell, who lost his right arm in the Civil War at the Battle of Shiloh. In 1869, he started with 10 men to explore the length of the Colorado River. Three months later, six would complete their journey after some harrowing experiences. Powell returned in 1871, to map the river and to conduct geological studies. Powell inspired courage and belief in the men that he led and he never put any limitations on his abilities. While not battling white water rapids, working on diverse teams with divergent points of view, creates opportunities for a different kind of courage.
Find the Missing Ingredient - A Quick Conversation
On the surface, a desert appears sparse and desolate. The harsh conditions do not seem conducive to growth. Yet, on the rare occasions that rain soaks the desert, it becomes a plethora of color and life - often overnight. Sometimes team projects seem like a desert, as if all of the efforts are providing little visible signs of growth. And yet, when the right ingredient arrives, the program flourishes and ‘flowers’ on cue.
Focus on Communication - A Quick Conversation
A referee’s job requires them to be an impartial expert on the game, clear headed, and capable of fairly applying the rules. During games, it would be impossible for coaches, players, and fans to make unbiased calls without a referee. Similarly, in high-pressure work environments, differences between colleagues may lead to disputes that make it impossible for them to see past their biases, resulting in a conflict or stalemate.
Gauge Opportunities - A Quick Conversation
Like the surfer selecting the right wave, people encounter endless opportunities for growth and must decide whether the opportunity is worth the inherent risks involved. Some opportunities may involve moving to a new country, working with colleagues with different backgrounds, or taking on a new role.
Identifying Opportunities - A Quick Conversation
On teams, it is important to be willing to invest time into the lives of other team members. We do this by learning about what they need and what obstacles they face and by then offering our assistance. This investment pays off in greater team cohesion, inclusion, and trust, as well as the removal of obstacles that stand in the way. Invest in your relationships with other team members by getting to know them on a personal level.
Invest Your Time for Others - A Quick Conversation
On teams, it is important to be willing to invest time into the lives of other team members. We do this by learning about what they need and what obstacles they face and by then offering our assistance. This investment pays off in greater team cohesion, inclusion, and trust, as well as the removal of obstacles that stand in the way.
Link Different Points of View - A Quick Conversation
The U.S. railroad was started in 1862 during the Civil War. President Lincoln and Congress understood both the symbolism of connecting the country and also the need to think long term, even while the country fought within itself. The railroad removed geographic barriers, spread ideas, and introduced a new way of life – a fresh start that was badly needed. Building a railroad symbolically within a team can mean bridging together two divergent points of view, bringing new insight into a situation.
Move From Conflict to Growth - A Quick Conversation
Unlike other pine trees that shed their pine cones and seeds annually, the pine cones of the jack pine will hold on to their seeds indefinitely until exposed to intense heat. In the charred wake of a forest fire, jack pine seedlings take root and begin the forest’s rebirth. Like a fire, a conflict between colleagues with different work styles and backgrounds can cause short pain and intense emotions.
Overcome Obstacles - A Quick Conversation
Tree limbs grow so that the leaves can absorb sunlight, the energy needed to sustain and create growth. Obstacles never stop a tree from finding the sunshine. Limbs bend around buildings, grow over street signs, and through abandoned structures. In the same way that trees need to be flexible and persistent in their quest to find sunlight, diversity projects need to grow under, through, or around any obstacles that block their path moving forward.
Pay Attention To Nonverbal Communication - A Quick Conversation
While your colleagues in the workplace communicate both verbally and non-verbally, understanding how to interpret their nonverbal communication can be a great advantage. Keep in mind that the meaning behind body language and facial expressions may vary from culture to culture, so it is always good to check for understanding.
See Potential Contributions, Not Limitations - A Quick Conversation
When working on teams, it is important not to look at limitations but instead at the potential contribution that each person can make – regardless of what kind of package that contribution comes in. This will allow you to maximize the skills and abilities of all team members.
Teamwork Through Innovation - A Quick Conversation
In the sport of barrel racing, when a horse and rider are working well together, the horse will intuitively move under the rider if it feels the rider start to fall. This automatic response is only possible due to the bond and unspoken communication that develops between a horse and a rider through the many hours of practicing together. When you devote time and effort to communicating with a colleague, especially one from a background different than your own, you can improve the fluency of your communication and eventually be able to detect minute changes in these communications.
Tell Stories to Build a Strong Community - A Quick Conversation
Across the globe, cave drawings thousands of years old have preserved the remnants of ancient civilizations. While the drawings may be scattered over great distances and originate from different cultures, they all have one aspect in common: they tell stories. The drawings recount stories about successes, hunts, trials, and daily life. Storytelling is at the heart of what makes us human and is a universal tool used by groups of people to explain who they are and the experiences that shaped their history. While we might not use cave drawings anymore, we still use storytelling to capture collective histories and lessons learned.
Understand How To Use Your Skills - A Quick Conversation
A guitar in the hands of a novice is simply an object to hold. In the hands of a master, that same guitar becomes an instrument that makes beautiful music. The guitar itself does not change; it just requires well-developed skills to unlock its musical potential. With effective instructions, open communication, and management support, employees are able to unlock and cultivate their natural talents and interests into skills that add to the strength of their team.
Understand Preconceived Notions - A Quick Conversation
Hear the word flour and what comes to mind is probably baking, bread, and pizza crust. The preconceived notion that flour is only found in baked goods can lead to surprise when it is discovered that it can also be an ingredient in: pasta sauce, hot dogs, salad dressing, soup, taco sauce, and even dog food. Having preconceived notions about other people is like assuming that you know all of the ingredients of an item of food just by looking at it.
Understand Your Significance - A Quick Conversation
Both captains and lighthouse keepers have roles that, although different, are important to the navigation of ships. Likewise, each position within a company plays an important role in helping the company to navigate the global marketplace. When employees understand how their role contributes to team success, they are able to take pride in doing their job well and in contributing to the overall progress of the company.
Understanding Context - A Quick Conversation
When a rubber band is stretched taut it has potential energy. This potential energy is only important if the rubber band is released and the band moves towards a target. A diverse team can also have incredible intrinsic potential. However, if team members do not feel comfortable contributing their unique ideas, they will not release their great potential energy towards the target of innovation.
Understanding From Experience - A Quick Conversation
A documentary about life in the sea will provide knowledge about ocean life. However, that knowledge is enhanced when it is combined with the experience of scuba diving. The combined knowledge and experience deepens your understanding of the sea exponentially. Scuba diving augments book knowledge with a visceral experience. The act of learning about people with different cultural backgrounds can be viewed in a similar way. Learning about a culture by reading a book or talking to people from that culture gives you a base of knowledge.
Understanding Hidden Beauty - A Quick Conversation
The majority of the time, a male peacock looks ordinary and small. However, when given an opportunity to showcase himself, he becomes a world-renown beauty. While he has the beauty every day, it is only when he feels duty-bound to be his best, that it is displayed and appreciated. People can be like peacocks. When they are not given opportunities to shine, they don’t let their true beauty show.
Understanding Impact - A Quick Conversation
A single drop of water splashing against a rock may not seem to have an erosive impact. However, there is power in water drops, for over time water has the strength to wear down stone. The Colorado River, which began millions of years ago as a drop of water, carved the Grand Canyon. Positive every day actions are like water drops. While each act may not seem to have much impact, over time, the cumulative impact of many drops of water can wear down fear, negativity, and resistance to help forge a new path ahead.
Understanding Passion - A Quick Conversation
The energy of a “match on the pitch” comes from a group of people sharing in their common passion. Being in the midst of your passion is an energizing experience. It is obvious when people are in their passion: their eyes light up, excitement fills their voice, and they are “in the zone.” Inquiring about a co-worker’s passion is a great way to gain insight into a person that you work with. Demonstrating a desire to understand a co-worker’s passion enables you to build connections and begin to create common ground.
Understanding Perceived Value - A Quick Conversation
During the Revolutionary War, lobster was considered such inferior food that it was used to feed the British prisoners, and even they revolted against it. With the advent of railroads, trains brought lobster to the Midwesterners, who had no cultural bias, and found it to be a delicacy. Gradually, New Englanders came to the same conclusion. Often it takes an outside perspective to realize the inherent value that is already on your team and within your company.
Understanding the Fear - A Quick Conversation
Jumping out of an airplane might seem insane to some people, while to others it is an exhilarating and often repeated experience. What makes one person deeply afraid may not be at all scary to another person. Much of what causes people to react with fear to a situation are perceptions and assumptions about what that situation will be like. After facing their fears, people often realize that the perception of the experience created more fear than the experience itself.
Discussion Card: After the Conversation
So you've had a difficult discussion with an employee, direct report, staff member... what's next? Things like action items, open issues, follow-up and more! These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model (A.F.T.E.R.) along with thought-provoking questions on effective ways to follow-up with a tough discussions with grace and respect. These cards are great for a quick training reminder, reinforcement or as a conversation generator.
Discussion Card: Before the Conversation
Having a difficult discussion is hard. Though it must be done to get to resolution, you must be prepared. That includes understanding ground rules and preparing yourself mentally (working through a checklist). These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model (B.E.F.O.R.E.) along with thought-provoking questions on effective ways to tackle the tough discussions with grace and respect. These cards are great for a quick training reminder, reinforcement or as a conversation generator.
Discussion Card: Conversations Across the Race Divide
Discussing race and racial inequities in the workplace can be tough... but it's a conversation that needs to take place. Shying away from key workplace topics/issues don't make those problems disappear. These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model (D.I.V.I.D.E.) along with thought-provoking questions on effective ways to tackle the tough discussions with grace and respect. These cards are great for a quick training reminder, reinforcement or as a conversation generator.
Discussion Card: Creating a Civil Workplace
Being civil means interacting and responding courteously and respectfully. These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model (C.I.V.I.L.) along with thought-provoking questions on being polite towards others. These cards are great for a quick training reminder, reinforcement or as a conversation generator.
Discussion Card: During the Conversation
We all know that having a difficult discussion can be hard. It's important to watch out for key indicators during that conversation. This includes ground rules, verbal and non-verbal cues, and so much more! These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model (D.U.R.I.N.G.) along with thought-provoking questions on effective ways to tackle the tough discussions with grace and respect. These cards are great for a quick training reminder, reinforcement or as a conversation generator.
Discussion Card: Having Brave Conversations
With a diverse workplace can come unique and interesting tension. When that tension grows into real issues, it's time to have a brave conversation. These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model (B.R.A.V.E.) along with thought-provoking questions on effective ways to tackle the tough discussions with grace and respect. These cards are great for a quick training reminder, reinforcement or as a conversation generator.
Discussion Card: Inclusive Workplaces
These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model (I.N.C.L.U.D.E.) along with thought-provoking questions on creating inclusiveness in the workplace. These cards are great for a quick training reminder or conversation starter.
Discussion Card: Micro-Affirmations
These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model (I.N.V.O.L.V.E.) along with thought-provoking questions on small actions that include people. These cards are great for a quick training reminder or conversation starter.
Discussion Card: Micro-inequities
These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model (I.G.N.O.R.E.) along with thought-provoking questions on small actions that tend to exclude people. These cards are great for a quick training reminder or conversation starter.
Discussion Card: Multicultural Interactions
These easy-to-use cards provide a model (C.U.L.T.U.R.E.) and questions to address common issues in the multicultural workplace. These cards are great for a quick training reminder or conversation starter.
Discussion Card: PREVAIL!® (3-OUT Response Model)
These durable, easy-to-use cards reinforce the PREVAIL!® Response Model (LOCK OUT | GET OUT | TAKE OUT) along with a 30 second "OUT" assessment. These conversation-starting cards can be distributed for a reminder or conversation starter or even a post-training reminder. This card is intended to reinforce active shooter/intruder response training.
Discussion Card: Purpose of the Talk
It's not always easy having workplace discussions - whether to simply gather information or to tackle a tough situation. Shying away from key workplace topics/issues don't make those problems disappear. These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model (T.H.E.C.H.A.T.) along with thought-provoking questions on effective ways to tackle the tough discussions with grace and respect. These cards are great for a quick training reminder, reinforcement or as a conversation generator.
Discussion Card: Resolving Conflict
When it comes to resolving conflict, we all know it can be tough - especially if you don't have a plan! These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model (R.E.S.O.L.V.E.) along with thought-provoking questions on better understanding & addressing conflict. Great for a quick training reminder, reinforcement or as a conversation generator.
Discussion Card: Respect Across Religions
When it comes to discussing religion in the workplace, there are so many questions. Be prepared to have these discussions while fostering an inclusion environment! These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model (F.A.I.T.H.S.) along with thought-provoking questions on better understanding & addressing questions on religion in the workplace. Great for a quick training reminder, reinforcement or as a conversation generator.
Discussion Card: Starting Conversations
When it comes to having a tough conversation, just starting is often the most difficult part. These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model (S.P.E.A.K.) along with thought-provoking questions to create a respectful flow of communication. These cards are great for a quick training reminder, reinforcement or as a conversation generator for all employees and managers.
Discussion Card: Starting Conversations with Grace
Need to have a serious talk with an employee or front-line staff? Having the tough workplace discussions are never easy. These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model (G.R.A.C.E.) along with thought-provoking questions on effective ways to tackle the tough discussions... effectively and with respect. These cards are great for a quick training reminder, reinforcement or as a conversation generator.
Discussion Card: The Power of Recovering
When we say (or do) something that negatively impacts a co-worker, it's often hard to know what to do to mend the relationship. Recovering a relationship is important to moving past the issue(s). These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model (R.E.C.O.V.E.R.) along with thought-provoking questions on effective ways to tackle the tough discussions with grace and respect. These cards are great for a quick training reminder, reinforcement or as a conversation generator.
Discussion Card: Working Across Gender
These colorful, easy-to-use cards provide a working across gender model (G.E.N.D.E.R.) and questions to address common gender-specific issues in the workplace. These cards are great for a quick training reminder or conversation starter.
Discussion Card: Working on Diverse Teams
These easy-to-use, straight-to-the-point cards provide a simple model (R.E.S.P.E.C.T.) and questions to address common team issues and areas for improvement. These cards are great for a quick training reminder or conversation starter.
Discussion Card: Working with Asian American Co-Workers
Accepting and including others in the workplace - regardless of their race or ethnicity - is key to truly leveraging the power of diversity. Having the difficult conversations helps everyone learn and address key diversity moments. These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model (A.S.I.A.N.) along with thought-provoking questions on better understanding & addressing questions on including and embracing other cultures in the workplace. Great for a quick training reminder, reinforcement or as a conversation generator.
Discussion Card: Working with Black & African American Co-Workers
Not sure how to discuss (let along increase) inclusion and belonging in your diverse workplace? These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model (B.L.A.C.K.) along with thought-provoking questions on better understanding & addressing questions on including and embracing other cultures in the workplace. Great for a quick training reminder, reinforcement or as a conversation generator.
Discussion Card: Working with Integrity
These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model (I.N.T.E.G.R.I.T.Y.) along with thought-provoking questions on truth and honesty in the workplace. These cards are great for a quick training reminder or conversation starter.
Discussion Card: Working with Latino-Hispanic Co-Workers
Other demographic groups are joining our organizations in increasing numbers and in positions where there weren’t before. Are you ready? These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model (L.A.T.I.N.O./A.) along with thought-provoking questions on better understanding & addressing questions on including and embracing other cultures in the workplace. Great for a quick training reminder, reinforcement or as a conversation generator.
Discussion Card: Working with Native American Co-Workers
Native American. First Nations. Inuit. Indian. There is a lot to consider when addressing diversity dynamics in the workplace. These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model (N.A.T.I.V.E.) along with thought-provoking questions on better understanding & addressing questions on including and embracing other cultures. Great for a quick training reminder, reinforcement or as a conversation generator.
Discussion Card: Working with Veteran Co-Workers
Military veterans are a great asset in the workplace. But how can you maximize their experience while maintaining respect and equity? These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model (V.E.T.E.R.A.N.) along with thought-provoking questions on better understanding your veteran's core tenents of honor, duty & integrity in the workplace. Great for a quick training reminder, reinforcement or as a conversation generator.
Introduction (from Maximized Leadership™ The Power Of Positivity)
What's the most common response you get when you do something right at work? If you said - nothing - you're right. People usually only pay attention to you when you make a mistake. The fact is a "gotcha" approach is what most people experience on the job. Which basically means they never hear from anyone until they mess up. And when they do hear from someone - it's usually to point fingers and make sure they know it's their fault.
Say Something Positive Today (from Maximized Leadership™ The Power Of Positivity)
Nothing can match the power of positive relationships to deliver results for ourselves and our organizations. To foster those relationships, we all need to wake up and say something positive... especially when things are going right. That's why using skills like redirection and giving people positive responses are so important.
Get the Whole Picture Self-Assessment & Participant Book
This assessment tool is designed to help you create your own learning objectives on probing into a candidate’s answers in selection interviews. After completion of this workshop you will be able to identify the benefits of the informational probing style, explain five behavior-based probing strategies and demonstrate how to use behavior-based probing techniques.
Everyday Leadership™ They're Both Older
Our workplace is full of employees from multiple generations. It is important to recognize and appreciate the knowledge, perspectives, and experiences that each generation brings to the table. Everyone has value, no matter their age. Creating a respectful workplace means leading others through biases and focusing on including others.
Everyday Leadership™ What's The Big Deal?
Decision-making is a daily occurrence in the workplace. Making ethical decisions is important not only to the organization, but to those who work for them and those they serve. We must ensure our team members are aware of the proper procedures for ethical decision-making and the numerous consequences that can occur if they are not followed. Big or small, an unethical decision can have a huge impact on the organization.
Everyday Leadership™ The Refund
As leaders in our organization, we all get frustrated sometimes, but we need to be positive and professional in our interactions with our customers. Taking out our frustrations on a customer could cause them to seek services from a competitor instead. We need to make sure we are offering them the best experience. Without our customers, we wouldn’t have a business.
TrainingBytes® It's That Time Again
Have you ever received an inappropriate email at work? How about an email that has a graphic picture or makes fun of someone in your office? Do you ever hear inappropriate jokes or comments in the workplace? Unfortunately, the sometimes subtle nature of what constitutes harassment and discrimination can make it difficult to identify. Using a dramatic example taken from a real life situation, this short program provides a realistic scenario intended to generate discussion regarding what behaviors constitute inappropriate behavior at work.
Everyday Leadership™ It's a Respect Thing
Relationships between different departments in an organization can sometimes be difficult. In fact, issues between departments may be detrimental to the organization as a whole if not resolved quickly and respectfully. Every department must be able to work together efficiently and effectively in order for the business to be successful.
Everyday Leadership™ Never Gonna Move Up
Stereotyping and inappropriate comments are all-too-common problems in the world today and are absolutely unacceptable in our organization. We must listen to and validate our employees concerns and act on them. As leaders, we can address and help prevent stereotyping by listening, speaking up, and treating ALL employees fairly, regardless of race. We also must address performance problems - even when there are other issues at play.
Everyday Leadership™ She Earned That
Regardless of physical appearance and gender, we should treat each other with respect and dignity. We must acknowledge that each other’s achievements are due to nothing short of hard work and dedication, NOT appearance or sexuality. We are all on the same team.
Everyday Leadership™ Yet Another Fire
Communication can make or break a project. Ensuring our team members are communicating effectively, efficiently, and timely is a key to success in the workplace. There will be times when we must have difficult conversations, but we need to confront and resolve these issues, not avoid them.
I'm Not Signing That
When an employee refuses to sign a performance evaluation, you might be tempted to just say - okay, fine. I'll just make a note that you refused to sign, and you do what you need to do. But the truth is, when an employee won't sign it generally means there's a lot more going on that really needs to be out on the table so you can deal with it. And the best way to make that happen is to take the time to T.A.L.K.™ about it.
It's Not My Fault
When an employee refuses to take responsibility for their performance problems, there are a couple of things you need to make sure you do. A quarterly or annual review shouldn't be the first time the employee is hearing about the problem or problems. The best way to correct a problem is to deal with it immediately, and document your actions. Then, make sure you keep your focus on the employee's behavior and don't get sucked into an emotional discussion about attitudes.
When They Just Don't Care
When an employee doesn't seem to care about setting goals in their daily work, it's easy to make assumptions about why they're acting that way. The problem is... you could be way off base. And your actions can actually end up making the situation worse. So, when you find yourself in this kind of situation, take a step back, and use the T.A.L.K.™ model to help find out why... Because once I find out why... then I can usually help the employee figure out how to move forward.
You Can't Believe Anything They Say
There are two keys to working with an employee who thinks the information you're using in your discussion is biased; the first is to take extra time to really listen to the employee's perspective. And the second is to be specific about the information you're basing your evaluation on. The key is to use the T.A.L.K.™ model to help the employee identify areas that need improvement on their own.
You're Doing a Great Job, But...
A tough conversation with a top performer can be difficult, especially when you really do need to ask that person to step up and give you a little more. The key is to use the T.A.L.K.™ model to help the employee identify areas that need improvement on their own. Sometimes it takes a little longer, but the results are definitely worth it.
Everyday Leadership™ One For The Ages
Our workplace is full of employees with valuable life experiences and ideas. It's important to recognize and appreciate the knowledge, perspectives, and experiences that team members of all ages bring to the table. Everyone has value, no matter their age.
TrainingBytes® Looking Over My Shoulder
A conflict with a co-worker can be one of the most frustrating things we have to deal with. I used to try to avoid people I didn't get along with, and just hope they got transferred out of the department. But the truth is that costs the department and the organization big time. It's one of those "everybody loses and everybody is miserable" approaches.
Discussion Card: Checking the Relationship
Having active and respectful discussions are paramount to creating working relationships based on inclusive and trust. These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model (R.A.P.P.O.R.T.) along with thought-provoking questions on effective ways to tackle the tough discussions with grace and respect. These cards are great for a quick training reminder, reinforcement or as a conversation generator.
TrainingBytes® Understanding Anxiety
Anxiety is something we all encounter as a normal part of life. Anxiety can actually be a motivator… helping us accomplish a task at hand that needs to be done. In simple terms anxiety is characterized as extreme fear or worry. Besides being worried and fearful about life in general, there is another type of anxiety that involves an irrational fear reaction in the presence or anticipation of a specific object, place, or situation.
TrainingBytes® Diversity Basics
Need a quick primer on the power and impact of workplace diversity? This short video provides a great overview of the basics of diversity and cultural competence. Diversity just shows up. It walks in your door through the hiring process… who's out there in the applicant pool… that's what’s available for you to hire. Whether your a manager, supervisor, team leader or even executive, this quick diversity resource provides key insight into the power of diversity!
Everyday Leadership™ There's More We Can Do
Having quality customer service is critical to any business. It's your job as a leader to set and maintain the organization's expectations when it comes to servicing customers. Those that are willing to go the extra mile for their customers will have customers for life. It is important to realize the consequences of our actions and know there is always more we can do.
TrainingBytes® Using Correct Pronouns
Pronouns, just like personal names, are connected to a person's identity. Gender pronouns are words that an individual (co-worker, customer, vendor, etc.) would like others to use when talking to or about them. The most commonly used pronouns are “he, him, his” and “she, her, hers.” People who are transgender, nonbinary, or gender nonconforming may choose to use pronouns that don't conform to binary male/female gender categorizations, such as "they, them, theirs."
Discussion Card: A.C.T. with Integrity™
A colorful and discussion-generating reminder card that provides a simple model (A.C.T.) for understanding the importance of workplace ethics as well as providing questions to address integrity moments in the workplace. These cards can be printed and distributed for a quick reminder or conversation starter.
Discussion Card: Avoiding the Scam! Knowing Your Role in Cybersecurity™
When it comes to cybersecurity, you're only as secure as your employee's knowledge and actions. These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model (S.C.A.M.) along with thought-provoking questions on the importance of understanding and following cybersecurity policies and procedures. These cards are great for a quick training reminder, reinforcement or as a conversation generator.
Discussion Card: Being F.A.I.R.™ The Power of Cultural Competence
A colorful and insightful reminder card that provides a simple model (F.A.I.R.) for understanding the importance of building and using cultural competency in our every day interactions. These cards can be printed and distributed for a quick reminder (post-training), performance management (just-in-time reinforcement) or a powerful conversation starter.
Discussion Card: L.E.A.D. with Integrity™
A colorful and discussion-generating reminder card that provides a simple model (L.E.A.D.) for understanding the importance of workplace ethics as well as providing questions to address integrity moments in the workplace. These cards can be printed and distributed for a quick reminder or conversation starter.
Discussion Card: Let's T.A.LK.™ Navigating Difficult Workplace Discussions
Dreading that difficult discussion with an employee or coworker who just isn't engaged or performing as expected? These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model (T.A.L.K.) along with thought-provoking questions on starting those tough conversations. Great for a quick training reminder, reinforcement or as a discussion generator.
Discussion Card: Listening by Creating Space
Having active and respectful discussions are essential components of an inclusive and innovative workplace. These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model (S.P.A.C.E.) along with thought-provoking questions on effective ways to tackle the tough discussions with grace and respect. These cards are great for a quick training reminder, reinforcement or as a conversation generator.
Discussion Card: Peer Today, Boss Tomorrow™
Help newly promoted managers, supervisors and leaders navigate their changing roles and have immediate impact! These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model along with thought-provoking questions on better understanding what it takes to truly and successfully lead others. These cards are great for a quick training reminder, reinforcement or as a conversation generator.
E•Z START™ Developing Cultural Competence
Cultural competency means you recognize and respond to the differences and similarities that make up our workforce and customer base - and use this understanding to communicate more effectively and to make better decisions. This E•Z START™ is geared towards all employees within your organization. Total Discussion Time: 30-60 Minutes
E•Z START™ Diversity Basics (for Leaders)
Diversity just shows up. It walks in your door through the hiring process… who's out there in the applicant pool… that's what’s available for you to hire. This E•Z START™ is geared towards all leaders within your organization (executives, managers, supervisors, board members, etc.) providing a quick primer on the power and impact of workplace diversity and cultural competency. Total Discussion Time: 30-60 Minutes
E•Z START™ Embracing Workplace Civility
Simply put, uncivil actions disrupt the workplace! In today's fast-paced world, a simple social media post or email can lead to hurt feelings...lost jobs and maybe even a lawsuit. But... being civil is not about just being polite or having good manners. This E•Z START™ is geared towards all employees within your organization (executives, managers & staff) helping them recognize the importance of maintaining a civil, respectful and inclusive workplace.
E•Z START™ Engaging Others
Engaged employees are not just those who are excited to come to work every day – they are deeply involved in, enthusiastic about and committed to their work. They understand their role and how it can impact the future of the organization. Engagement is an employees’ willingness and ability to contribute to the company’s success. This E•Z START™ is geared towards all managers/leaders within your organization. Total Discussion Time: 30-60 Minutes
E•Z START™ Getting Back to Work After the Pandemic
After the pandemic, organizations are navigating a broad range of issues that span from keeping their employees and customers safe to re-configuring business operations and getting things to a 'new' normal. This E•Z START™ is geared towards all employees within your organization, providing a great introduction to what employees might see in the post-pandemic workplace. Total Discussion Time: 30-60 Minutes
E•Z START™ Resolving Workplace Conflict
Most of us would agree that one of our biggest challenges is dealing with conflict. But, most of us don't have the tools to resolve conflict in a healthy way. We end up damaging relationships, we lose trust… the list goes on and on. This E•Z START™ is geared towards all employees within your organization - helping them recognize the importance of maintaining a civil, respectful and inclusive workplace. Total Discussion Time: 30-60 Minutes
E•Z START™ Tackling Illegal Stereotypes (National Origin)
Being frustrated with co-workers from time-to-time is natural and understandable. But when we perpetuate stereotypes about people based on things like their appearance or where they come from, not only is it unprofessional and disrespectful… it also can be illegal. This E•Z START™ is geared towards all employees within your organization - providing a lesson on the detrimental impact of stereotypes. Total Discussion Time: 30-60 Minutes