5 Things / Ouch Moments
Listen to the Full Episode Here:
This week I was on a sales call with an organization looking to train its account managers. The company provides a premium, high-touch 1:1 service, and its account managers were increasingly finding themselves having "ouch" moments after mistaken assumptions during conversations with clients, causing them to lose the client forever. I was delighted to hear that this company didn't expect to solve this problem with one workshop, so we chatted about a series addressing a variety of lived experiences.
The problem that this company is having is increasingly common. Here are some things that will help: have diverse employees who reflect increasingly diverse clients (but make sure you create a culture of inclusion so they stay). Build an equity lens into all organizational decision-making (use Inclusive 360!). Train employees, and reinforce this training with job aids. Embed inclusion training into onboarding.
As anyone who's ever heard my Voices Carry keynote knows, these "ouch" moments happen to all of us. They're often based on assumptions, and the antidote is to ask better questions. One way to do that is with the ARC Method (ask - respect - connect). One thing not to do is shut down and not try because you're afraid of making a mistake. If you haven't heard this keynote, respond, and let's set it up – it's fun and full of great lessons that bring everyone into the diversity conversation.
Here Are This Week's Good Vibes:
Achieving Gender Parity in M.B.A. Programs
Business schools at Penn State and Oxford have reached gender parity in their M.B.A. programs, joining George Washington University, Johns Hopkins University, and the University of Pennsylvania, marking a trend towards increased representation of women in business leadership pipelines. This matters because M.B.A.s are crucial for high-level roles, and while women run only 10% of Fortune 500 companies, equal educational access could be a game changer. Gender parity in M.B.A. programs promises a ripple effect, potentially doubling the current 10% of female CEOs by enriching the talent pool and offering diverse perspectives vital for understanding markets and leading inclusive teams.
Inclusivity Revamp by the American Ornithological Society
The American Ornithological Society is set to revamp bird names that honor individuals, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and diversity in birding. The American Ornithological Society is rebranding species named after people to foster a more inclusive birding community. This shift, starting with 70-80 North American species, is a response to the call for names that celebrate the birds, not just historical figures, and to avoid names that may be offensive. This matters because it's a commitment to social justice and inclusivity, reflecting society's understanding that representation and language impact who feels welcome in the world of ornithology and beyond.
NFL's Inclusive Fan Gear Initiative
The NFL is leveling up on inclusivity by launching a line of adaptive and assisted apparel for all 32 teams. These aren't your regular tees and hoodies—think magnetic snaps, wider neck openings, and back buttons, designed specifically for fans with disabilities or sensory issues. Why does this matter? Well, about 26% of adults in the U.S. live with some form of disability. That's a huge chunk of the fan base that can now represent their team more comfortably! Let's keep these wins coming!
Sony's Accessible Gaming Controller Launch
Sony is launching the Access controller for PlayStation on December 6th. This circular controller has been in development for five years and is designed for accessibility. It features customizable buttons and a control stick that can be adjusted for comfort. Users can configure settings to meet their needs and use it alone or with other controllers. The Access controller is intended to make gaming more comfortable for people with disabilities and will be priced at $89.99.
Breaking Barriers: Admiral Lisa Franchetti's Historic Achievement
Admiral Lisa Franchetti's confirmation as the first female Chief of Naval Operations breaks a historic glass ceiling in the U.S. military's leadership. With 95-1 in favor, her confirmation highlights a shift towards greater inclusivity at the highest levels. This matters because it not only brings diverse perspectives to the Joint Chiefs of Staff but also represents progress within a traditionally male-dominated arena. As the second woman to become a four-star admiral, Franchetti's role is a powerful signal that competence and leadership in the military are not defined by gender.
This Week’s Call to Action:
In observation of Native American Heritage Month, this is an ideal moment to explore the ancestral histories of the land where you live. For instance, here in Chicago, I am privileged to live on the traditional homelands of multiple tribal nations, including the Kickapoo, Peoria, Kaskaskia, Potawatomi, Myaamia, and Ochethi Sakowin. You can look up the indigenous heritage of your area and then learn more about the specific tribal nation here.