Talking about diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace is challenging as the backdrop to these conversations involves different histories, beliefs, values and perspectives.  To create environments where individuals can achieve a sense of belonging, these conversations are critical.

Great conversations are built on trust, openness, courage and interest. If conducted effectively, these conversations broaden perspectives, engage team members, strengthen relationships and, ultimately, support achieving organizational objectives and goals.  Leaders have the greatest opportunity to facilitate these powerful and engaging conversations about core DEI topics with their teams.  The resulting dialogue expands perspectives, builds understanding and creates a path to real behavior change.

DEI conversations are often intimidating for managers due to the emotional attachment, the fear of saying the wrong thing or the lack of understanding with DEI topics.  Managers need support to build their confidence to engage in these essential conversations that lead to meaningful change.

The Diversity Xpress Series is a fast-paced and interactive tool to support leader-led conversations. It provides instructions for opening conversations – creating an inclusive space for discussion and offering ideas for workplace application.  These 10-15 minute conversations provide teams with various topics of particular interest based on the group, the environment, current issues or the level of familiarity with DEI within the team.  Diversity Xpress also includes a ‘Tough Questions’ section to support leaders in responding to issues often raised by teams during these types of conversations.

The series includes tips for preparing and conducting 19 DEI related conversations including:

The benefits of building cross cultural competency across an organization are significant. Bridging cultures leads to improved communication, better decision making and problem solving, increased innovation, improved customer service and enhanced brand reputation. When people understand cultural differences, they are better able to assess situations and make informed decisions that consider the perspectives and needs of everyone involved. 

Bridging Cultures helps individuals gain insights, concepts, skills and tools needed to effectively work across cultures. It explores the foundation or “roots” of culture including: belief systems, values, thought patterns, assumptions and expectations. And it examines how underlying factors manifest within the behaviors that individuals display in the workplace.