Search Video Library for: Collaboration
Being Cooperative and Respectful
How building rapport, sharing credit and keeping a manager informed creates cooperative and respectful behavior.
Video Vignettes Personal Performance Professionalism, Collaboration, Communication, Interpersonal Skills, Effective Leadership
Me Jing Or Ma Jong? Avoiding Stereotypes
A focus on the concept of assistance within a diversity context and the importance of avoiding stereotypes (and bias - conscious or unconscious) in the workplace.
Video Vignettes Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Diversity Dynamics, Communication, Compliance, Inclusion / Equity / Belonging, Interpersonal Skills, Management, Professionalism, Respect / Respectfulness, Unconscious / Hidden Bias
Everybody Wins: How to Turn Conflict into Collaboration™
Deadlines, change, stress, miscommunication, confusion over responsibilities... there is no shortage of opportunities for conflict in the workplace. However, there is a loss of productivity when employees spend all their time dealing with conflict. This program teaches employees to take the initiative in resolving conflict with their coworkers and cooperating to find win/win solutions for most disagreements.
Off-The-Shelf Video Program (ILT) Personal Performance Interpersonal Skills, Communication, Diversity Dynamics, Management, Professionalism
Invest Time to Build Trust™ (Team Spark Video)
Building team confidence and trust helps to resolve communication issues that may impede team progress. A trusting team will be able to function as a cohesive unit when critical decisions have to be made.
Off-The-Shelf Video Program (ILT) Leadership, Personal Performance Energizer or Team Builder, Communication, Discussion Trigger, Team Builder, Teamwork
Mix Diverse Personalities (Team Spark Video)
Creating a team comprised of diverse individuals may require a more careful balancing of components, but in the end provides the opportunity for brilliant results when done with careful thought and respect.
Off-The-Shelf Video Program (ILT) Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Teamwork, Discussion Trigger, Diversity Dynamics, Team Builder
The Customer Who Got Up on the Wrong Side of the Bed (from Bad Apples™)
Dealing with a difficult customer - it takes work, but the benefits are easy to see.
Video Vignettes Personal Performance Interpersonal Skills, Change, Communication, Customer Service, Interpersonal Skills, Professionalism
Attitude Is...™
A human being can change their life… by changing their attitude. It’s up to you. It’s your choice. A thought-provoking video that uses music, text and graphics to inspire and stimulate discussion about attitude and the effects it has on relationships and companies.
Discussion Generators Personal Performance Change, Change, Collaboration, Communication, Interpersonal Skills, Learning Reinforcement, Motivation
Team Spark: Adapt to Collaborate
In today’s work environment, finding the time to explore teamwork issues is not easy. This activity is designed to provide quick 10-15 minute team discussions the power of collaboration among projects and teams.
Activities Personal Performance Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Team Builder, Teamwork
Team Spark: Be Open to How Work Gets Done
Being open and flexible about how work gets done, especially on diverse teams with many different perspectives, invites healthy collaboration and the collective pull of the entire team towards the end goal.
Activities Personal Performance Teamwork, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Team Builder
Team Spark: Cheer on Collaboration
An outside energetic and supportive cheerleader can prove essential to the success of the team by offering words of encouragement, and if needed, expertise, suggestions, or technical support.
Activities Personal Performance Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Interpersonal Skills, Team Builder, Teamwork
Team Spark: Collaborate Outside Of Your Team
By collaborating with someone outside of their team, employees bring a broader view to their work. With a more diverse perspective, new insights are gained and the chances of success are increased.
Activities Personal Performance Teamwork, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Interpersonal Skills, Team Builder
Team Spark: Collaboration with Skill
Courting a business partner from a different country or cultural background may require research on their cultural views on business relationships, developing trust, negotiation, and communication styles.
Activities Personal Performance Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Interpersonal Skills, Team Builder, Teamwork
Team Spark: Compromise For A Common Goal
Compromise during collaboration can create the strongest and most compelling outcomes when working on teams, projects, and organizational challenges. The best results come from everyone being willing to compromise in order to achieve the end result.
Activities Personal Performance Teamwork, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Team Builder
Team Spark: Cultivate a Collective Instinct
Collective effort can result in outcomes that are impossible when attempted as an individual. When working collectively with people from diverse backgrounds, we have an even greater pool of resources and expertise with which to successfully navigate times of great challenge.
Activities Personal Performance Teamwork, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Team Builder
Team Spark: Honor Unique Contributions
The individual brilliance of an employee is not always realized until a group comes together to collaborate. Working with other employees on diverse teams helps each team member to tap into their creativity, often producing ground breaking products and services that could only be discovered through collaboration.
Activities Personal Performance Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Team Builder, Teamwork
Team Spark: Invest Time to Build Trust
When working on diverse teams, developing trust may take longer due to background differences and different views on what trust means and how it is earned. Building confidence helps to resolve communication issues that may impede team progress. A trusting team will be able to function as a cohesive unit when critical decisions have to be made.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Team Builder, Teamwork
Team Spark: Leverage Broad Expertise
Like building a skyscraper, collaboration on large projects works best when you bring together a team with diverse areas of expertise. On-going and continuous collaboration among disciplines helps to ensure that your project achieves all of its goals when it is completed.
Activities Personal Performance Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Team Builder, Teamwork
Team Spark: Mix Diverse Personalities
When combined haphazardly, people can clash instead of cohere, resulting in a “failed launch.” Creating a team comprised of diverse individuals may require a more careful balancing of components, but in the end provides the opportunity for brilliant results when done with careful thought and respect.
Activities Personal Performance Teamwork, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Diversity Dynamics, Team Builder
Team Spark: Proverb - People Will Listen More If You Are Kind When Delivering the Message
Spark team communication on how kindness can help us achieve our desired end result on both projects and personal pursuits.
Activities Personal Performance Professionalism, Discussion Trigger, Respect / Respectfulness, Team Builder
Team Spark: Understand Your Expertise
Diverse teams with members from different backgrounds will offer an even greater variety of expertise and personalities. While it may take an increased amount of respect and awareness to work in concert, the team has a greater potential for victory.
Activities Personal Performance Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Team Builder, Teamwork
Discussion Card: Collaboration
These easy-to-use cards provide a simple model (T.E.A.M. U.P.) along with thought-provoking questions on the power of collaboration and effective teamwork in the workplace. These cards are great for a quick training reminder or conversation starter.
Discussion Cards Leadership, Personal Performance Teamwork, Collaboration, Communication, Culture Commitment, Discussion Trigger, Energizer or Team Builder, Effective Leadership, Learning Reinforcement, Management, Team Builder or Retention Aid
Everybody Wins - Program Introduction
"I just love conflict!" Said no one ever! Learn to turn conflict into collaboration by following a three-step process featured in the opening segment of the program.
Video Introduction Personal Performance Interpersonal Skills, Change, Communication, Diversity Dynamics, Management, Professionalism
WorkSmarts - Program Introduction
Introduction of four strategies for being work smart.
Video Introduction Personal Performance Professionalism, Collaboration, Communication, Interpersonal Skills, Problem Resolution
SMART-START™ Problem Solving: What's Your Problem?
A thought-provoking video that uses music, text and graphics to inspire and stimulate discussion about solving problems with one another.
Meeting Openers Personal Performance Interpersonal Skills, Communication, Professionalism
Conflict Clock: Taking T.I.M.E. to Resolve Conflict in the Workplace™
Handle workplace conflict effectively with this new program! Conflict Clock™ presents four proven strategies that will help participants break old and negative response habits. Conflict with another person can create stress – the kind of stress that can lead to a response that makes the problem worse, rather than better. Our bodies naturally gravitate toward a Fight, a Flight, or a Freeze response when we feel threatened or upset. This program is designed to help all employees identify and change our responses - better dealing with the conflict at hand.
Off-The-Shelf Video Program (ILT) Personal Performance Conflict Resolution, Communication, Interpersonal Skills, Professionalism
Conflict Clock: Taking T.I.M.E. to Resolve Conflict in the Workplace™ (Managers)
As a supervisor or manager, your role is vital to the success of the organization. You can impact morale, teamwork, collaboration, respect, inclusion, innovation, quality…and the list goes on. Sometimes we forget this in the heat of conflict. Conflict Clock™ for managers will give you a quick reinforcement and a model for successfully resolving workplace conflict.
Off-The-Shelf Video Program (ILT) Leadership Conflict Resolution, Communication, Interpersonal Skills, Management, Professionalism
Conflict 101™
Most of us would agree that one of the biggest challenges is dealing with conflict… whether at work or at home. Unfortunately, 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. Conflict 101™ is a new micro-learning program packed with conflict resolution tips and tools.
Off-The-Shelf Video Program (ILT) Leadership, Personal Performance Conflict Resolution, Communication, Interpersonal Skills, Professionalism
The Fight Response (from Confronting Workplace Conflict™ for Managers)
It’s pretty obvious…yelling doesn’t help promote a respectful workplace or help make people feel included. It’s the same thing when dealing with conflict. Relationships get damaged, productivity dramatically decreases - people just shut down. Who wants to be yelled at? It’s unfortunate, but those who hit conflict straight on like that usually don’t know a better way to get things done.
Video Vignettes Leadership, Personal Performance Conflict Resolution, Communication, Interpersonal Skills, Effective Leadership, Professionalism
Introduction (from Confronting Workplace Conflict™ for Managers)
Most of us don't have all the tools necessary to resolve workplace conflict in a healthy and productive way. We end up damaging relationships, we lose trust… the list goes on and on. This video introduces a program packed with conflict resolution tips and tools - especially for managers and leaders.
Video Introduction Leadership, Personal Performance Conflict Resolution, Communication, Interpersonal Skills, Effective Leadership, Professionalism
The Bottom Line (from Confronting Workplace Conflict™ for Managers)
The most effective way to deal with conflict is to...Take a Moment....to get your composure. Identify a Positive Response… to move things forward in a positive way and break that typical fight, flight or freeze response. Manage Your Emotions...so you don’t overreact or take it personally. Remaining calm is good for you and for those you work with. Finally, envision a successful outcome. This is beneficial to you, those you work with and your organization.
Video Summary Leadership, Personal Performance Conflict Resolution, Communication, Interpersonal Skills, Effective Leadership, Professionalism
The Flight Response (from Confronting Workplace Conflict™ for Managers)
When we encounter conflict with co-workers, many times we get stressed out and we go into flight mode. When a problem causes me to take “Flight”, I typically do it because I’m afraid that I’ll upset someone and hurt that relationship. Simply put… I’m afraid they won’t like me. But here’s the rub. If I don’t act, the problem won’t go away, it will affect my work, the productivity of other team members and a whole lot more.
Video Vignettes Leadership, Personal Performance Conflict Resolution, Communication, Interpersonal Skills, Effective Leadership, Professionalism
The Freeze Response (from Confronting Workplace Conflict™ for Managers)
It’s not uncommon for people to simply “freeze up” when another person tries to steamroll the situation. Yet, moments later we want to kick ourselves because we now know what we should have said - only it’s too late. At the same time, we think we’ll say the wrong thing and the person will get even more upset.
Video Vignettes Leadership, Personal Performance Conflict Resolution, Communication, Interpersonal Skills, Effective Leadership, Professionalism
A.C.E. It!™ How to Solve Tough Workplace Problems
Does your organization recycle the same tired approaches to problems that never seem to go away? Equip your workforce with a proven problem-solving model to tackle poor quality, inefficiency, uneven performance and more. Individuals or teams can solve any problem once and for all when they learn to A.C.E. It!
Off-The-Shelf Video Program (ILT) Personal Performance Interpersonal Skills, Change, Communication, Effective Leadership, Sales & Service
A.C.E. It! - Introduction to the A.C.E. It Steps
Acknowledge the variety of tough situations that can arise in the workplace and introduce easy problem solving steps.
Video Introduction Personal Performance Interpersonal Skills, Change, Communication, Effective Leadership, Sales & Service
A.C.E. in Action - Putting Parts of A.C.E. Model Together
Understanding all three steps of an easy-to-use problem-solving model - A.C.E. in Action.
Video Vignettes Personal Performance Interpersonal Skills, Change, Communication, Effective Leadership, Problem Resolution
Confronting Workplace Conflict™ (for Managers)
Let's face it, most of us don't have the tools to resolve conflict (whether at work or at home) in a healthy way. We end up damaging relationships, we lose trust… the list goes on and on. Confronting Workplace Conflict™ is a new micro-learning program packed with conflict resolution tips and tools - especially for managers and leaders.
Off-The-Shelf Video Program (ILT) Leadership, Personal Performance Conflict Resolution, Communication, Interpersonal Skills, Effective Leadership, Professionalism
Managing Your Own Productivity
Give your emerging leaders new insight into why individual responsibility and initiative are essential to personal and team success. In three, straight-to-the-point modules, leaders will experience focused learning on how to plan, organize and manage priorities while working effectively with others to achieve results.
Off-The-Shelf Video Program (ILT) Personal Performance Personal Improvement, Change, Interpersonal Skills, Professionalism
Ask Fact and Feeling Questions
Asking questions to understand a problem
Video Vignettes Personal Performance Interpersonal Skills, Change, Communication, Effective Leadership, Sales & Service
Being Accountable and Flexible
How a 'can-do' attitude, high-performing work habits and acceptance of constructive criticism can build flexibility and accountability.
Video Vignettes Personal Performance Professionalism, Collaboration, Communication, Interpersonal Skills, Effective Leadership
Can’t You Just Deal with It? (The 'Flight' Approach to Conflict)
Most of us have responded poorly to an emotional trigger at one time or another. Usually we realize after the fact that our response didn’t help matters. It is common for us to get caught in patterns or cycles (Flight) of poor responses to conflict triggers with people in our families, with our friends and with people at work. Using a Flight response may feel good in the short-term, but conflicts seldom resolve successfully when we avoid them.
Video Vignettes Personal Performance Conflict Resolution, Change, Communication, Interpersonal Skills
Clarify Goals and Identify Concerns
The importance of knowing what you want to achieve in order to solve problems.
Video Vignettes Personal Performance Interpersonal Skills, Change, Communication, Communication & Influencing, Effective Leadership
Conflict 101™ - The Fight Response
It’s pretty obvious…yelling doesn’t help promote a respectful workplace or help make people feel included. It’s the same thing when dealing with conflict. Relationships get damaged, productivity dramatically decreases - people just shut down.
Video Vignettes Leadership, Personal Performance Conflict Resolution, Communication, Interpersonal Skills, Professionalism
Conflict 101™ - The Flight Response
When we encounter conflict with co-workers, many times we get stressed out and we go into flight mode. But here’s the rub. If I don’t act, the problem won’t go away, it will affect my work, the productivity of other team members and a whole lot more.
Video Vignettes Leadership, Personal Performance Conflict Resolution, Communication, Interpersonal Skills, Professionalism
Conflict 101™ - The Freeze Response
It’s not uncommon for people to simply “freeze up” when another person tries to steamroll the situation. Yet, moments later we want to kick ourselves because we now know what we should have said--only it’s too late.
Video Vignettes Leadership, Personal Performance Conflict Resolution, Communication, Interpersonal Skills, Professionalism
Evaluate Options and Select a Workable Solution
How to best evaluate solution-based options.
Video Vignettes Personal Performance Interpersonal Skills, Change, Communication, Effective Leadership, Sales & Service
Straight TALK™ - A Spotlight on Resolving Conflict in the Workplace
Conflict in the workplace isn't always unhealthy. There are many things to consider when dealing with both healthy and detrimental workplace conflict. This new Straight TALK™ series focuses on understanding conflict and our options on handling it. Intended for managers and supervisors, this series gets straight to the point by providing easy-to-understand information - directly from Sollah's premiere subject matter experts.
Video Vignettes Leadership, Personal Performance Conflict Resolution, Discussion Trigger, Interpersonal Skills, Professionalism
Team Troubles? (The 'Fight' Approach to Conflict)
Some people use an aggressive approach when upset - we call this the 'fight' approach. This vignette helps you anticipate this and help you think about how you can use T.I.M.E. principles when your own emotions are triggered.
Video Vignettes Leadership Teamwork, Change, Communication, Conflict Resolution, Interpersonal Skills, Professionalism
That’s My Bonus You’re Messin’ With! (The 'Freeze' Approach to Conflict)
Most of us don't like conflict! Some of us tend to 'freeze' when we are faced with situations that force us deal with tension in the workplace. It's important to remember that each of us is responsible for reacting in ways that will increase the odds for a successful resolution to the conflict.
Video Vignettes Leadership, Personal Performance Conflict Resolution, Communication, Interpersonal Skills, Professionalism
Conflict 101™ - Conflict Strategy Overview
Most of us would agree that one of the biggest challenges is dealing with conflict… whether at work or at home.
Video Introduction Leadership, Personal Performance Conflict Resolution, Communication, Interpersonal Skills, Professionalism
Program Introduction (T.I.M.E. Model)
People all seem to have one thing in common...They all have to deal with conflict...whether at work or at home. It’s a part of life. There is a simple, yet very effective way to deal with conflict. Use T.I.M.E. to your advantage.
Video Introduction Personal Performance Conflict Resolution, Interpersonal Skills, Professionalism
Conflict 101™ - The Bottom Line
There’s no doubt that dealing with conflict is challenging but may not always be easy. But, it’s important to learn how-to-deal with “conflict” in a healthy and positive way.
Video Summary Leadership, Personal Performance Conflict Resolution, Communication, Interpersonal Skills, Professionalism
Everybody Wins - Program Conclusion/Review Three-Steps/"Making Sure Everybody Wins"
Working together. Why is that such a hard concept for some people. Here's a summary of how to use the three steps involved in turning conflict into collaboration.
Video Summary Personal Performance Interpersonal Skills, Communication, Professionalism
I Can A.C.E. That Problem
A.C.E. stands for "Assess, Create, Execute." First, assess the situation to fully understand the problem. Then, create a plan by brainstorming solutions. Finally, execute the plan. Keep in mind to review and adapt as necessary along the way.
Video Summary Personal Performance Interpersonal Skills, Change, Communication, Effective Leadership, Sales & Service
Program Summary (Recapping the T.I.M.E. Model)
Conflict resolution success! We need to take a moment...to give ourselves some time. Then, identify a positive response. Next, we manage our emotions so we won’t over react or take it personally. And finally, we envision a successful outcome.
Video Summary Personal Performance Conflict Resolution, Communication, Interpersonal Skills, Professionalism
SMART-START™ Attitude: It's All in How You Look at It
A thought-provoking video that uses music, text and graphics to inspire and stimulate discussion about attitude and the effects it has on relationships and companies.
Meeting Openers Leadership, Personal Performance Professionalism, Change, Collaboration, Communication, Interpersonal Skills, Motivation
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Collaboration, Communication, Discussion Trigger, Reducing Stress (Work & Life), Teamwork
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Collaboration, Communication, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Collaboration, Communication, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Collaboration, Communication, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork
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.
Video Vignettes Leadership Successfully Leading Others, Effective Leadership, Respect / Respectfulness, Teamwork
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™ Leadership Collaboration, Communication, Teamwork
Team Spark: Proverb - If Everyone Has The Responsibility; Nothing Gets Done
Spark team communication on having specific ownership to help ensure a task is completed.
Activities Personal Performance Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Team Builder
Team Spark: Proverb - Take Responsibility For The Results
Spark team communication understanding the need to reevaluate how people are given responsibility.
Activities Personal Performance Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Team Builder
Team Spark: Proverb - You Are Limited by What Ties You Down
Spark team communication on how have we faced limitations in the past and yet overcome them.
Activities Personal Performance Collaboration, Communication, Discussion Trigger, Team Builder
Mentoring 201™ - The Next Steps for Success
A mentor is one of any organization’s greatest resources. Having a committed mentor is a key factor to improving employee engagement - and we know that good engagement means employees will stay longer and their contributions increase. Mentoring 201 takes a closer look at some key elements of the mentor/mentee relationship that includes: planning for a successful discussion, setting goals, identifying career paths and establishing development needs.
Off-The-Shelf Video Program (ILT) Leadership, Personal Performance Coaching & Mentoring, Change, Collaboration, Interpersonal Skills, Effective Leadership, Professionalism
Mentoring 101™ - The Basics
When you’re a mentor, you’re really like a coach… someone who can speak from experience… a resource that can give insight, even tips - that will help someone else be successful at what they’re doing. Some organizations have official mentors while others have an informal approach to mentoring. No matter how it happens, as a mentor, you’re filling a vital role to the on-going success of your organization.
Off-The-Shelf Video Program (ILT) Leadership, Personal Performance Coaching & Mentoring, Change, Collaboration, Interpersonal Skills, Effective Leadership, Professionalism
How Do You Measure Success? (from Mentoring 201™)
So, you’ve had a lot of conversation with your mentee. You’ve listened. You’ve heard their goals. You’ve shared your feedback. But how successful has it all been? This video provides some other questions that can help to uncover the true underlying value of what you’ve achieved together.
Video Summary Leadership, Personal Performance Coaching & Mentoring, Change, Collaboration, Interpersonal Skills, Effective Leadership, Professionalism
Seek Transformation - A Quick Conversation
For weeks after birth, a caterpillar eats continuously; growing nearly 100 times its initial size before it spins itself into a chrysalis. Within the chrysalis, the caterpillar’s robust body completely breaks down into a DNA soup, where it takes several more weeks to reform into a beautiful, adult butterfly. Like the foraging caterpillar, a team spends time nourishing their group culture in order to prosper. However, in order to evolve even further, there comes a time when even the strongest teams need to break down and transform their fundamental team roles, structure, processes, goals, and vision in order to grow.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Teamwork, Change, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Communication, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Communication, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Communication, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Diversity Dynamics, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork
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.”
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Communication, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Communication, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork
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.
Activities Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Discussion Trigger, Collaboration, Communication, Diversity Dynamics, Inclusion / Equity / Belonging
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.
Activities Leadership Teamwork, Collaboration, Communication, Discussion Trigger
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Communication, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Inclusion / Equity / Belonging, Collaboration, Communication, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Diversity Dynamics, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork
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.
Activities Leadership Teamwork, Collaboration, Communication, Discussion Trigger
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Diversity Dynamics, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork
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.
Activities Leadership Communication, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Coaching & Mentoring, Collaboration, Communication, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Teamwork, Collaboration, Communication, Discussion Trigger
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Conflict Resolution, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Teamwork, Collaboration, Communication, Discussion Trigger
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Communication, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Communication, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork
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.
Activities Personal Performance Teamwork, Collaboration, Communication, Discussion Trigger
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Communication, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Teamwork, Collaboration, Communication, Discussion Trigger
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Diversity Dynamics, Collaboration, Communication, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Communication, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Diversity Dynamics, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Communication, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Teamwork, Collaboration, Communication, Discussion Trigger
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Communication, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Communication, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Communication, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork
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.
Activities Leadership, Personal Performance Personal Improvement, Collaboration, Discussion Trigger, Teamwork