5 Things / Client-Facing
I’ve recently booked several keynotes for audiences of sales professionals. I love this particular work because these are the people who are the face of the brand, yet often miss out on inclusion programming because they’re on the road or in the field.
As a business owner for many years, I’ve spent most of my career in client-facing roles, so I know a thing or two about how to not accidentally offend clients – and how to recover gracefully when you do. Let me tell you, it’s embarrassing. And chances are, you’ll never make THAT mistake again.
My key to resonating with this audience is to be crystal clear on their motivations – and let’s face it, it’s probably about making $$$$ and taking care of their family. I’m deeply familiar with that pressure. But at the end of the day, we can have a lot more fun at work if we have a more authentic relationship with our clients, and that starts with kind curiosity. It starts with following the ARC.
Here Are This Week's Good Vibes:
LA Comedy Show Embraces Neurodiversity
A comedy show at LA’s Laugh Factory made stand-up inclusive for neurodivergent audiences and included neurodivergent comics. Simple adjustments like a “chill-out” space, lower sound levels, and allowing audience members to move or speak freely made the environment welcoming without compromising the humor. Creating inclusive spaces doesn’t require drastic changes—just awareness and empathy. ♐ Neurodivergent inclusion can be integrated into any setting!
Phifer Transforms Employee Health Care
Phifer, a manufacturing company based in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, has 2,000 employees and through an onsite health care clinic, offers free primary care, prescriptions, orthotics, and chiropractic service for its employees. This has dramatically reduced the financial strain on workers and saved Phifer millions – which it then reinvested in its workforce through free summer camps and scholarships. This approach is good for everyone. ♐ Accessible, free health care reduces employee debt!
Microsoft Focuses on Inclusive AI Development
In 2023, Microsoft faced backlash when its AI-powered Bing chatbot went rogue. To address bias, Microsoft has been embedding DEI within AI teams and systems. With over 50% of its workforce being racial and ethnic minorities, Microsoft is building a more inclusive AI by ensuring a diverse range of experts—anthropologists, linguists, and engineers—contribute to its development. ♐ Diversify your teams to reduce bias in outputs!
Synchrony Offers On-Site Therapy Sessions
Synchrony Financial has set a new standard for employee well-being by offering on-site therapy with a psychologist. Employees can access up to 12 free sessions per year, addressing challenges like anxiety, relationship stress, and work-life balance. This program was requested by younger employees and has quickly gained popularity across all ages. Ultimately this leads to a healthier, more productive workforce and distinguishes Synchrony as a forward-thinking employer. ♐ Listen to your employees!
SheDrives Empowers Trans, Women Riders
Pakistan’s transgender community has gained a vital service with the launch of SheDrives, a ride-sharing app serving trans people and women in Lahore. With an estimated 30,000 trans individuals in the city, the service provides a safer alternative to public transport, where harassment and discrimination are rampant. SheDrives is a step toward inclusivity, allowing trans people and women to reclaim dignity and mobility in a conservative society. ♐ Creating safe spaces in transportation empowers marginalized communities.
Good Vibes to Go:
Get Smarter in Seconds by watching this YouTube series by Blair Imani. Learn about Juneteenth in 90 seconds, about Ramadan in 30, and ADHD in a minute!