Tension Happens! Embarrassment, looking foolish, feeling like a bad person, anger, resentment. These are the feelings that can come up when you have a negative encounter in the workplace. When you've said something wrong. When you hear something offensive. When something you say has been taken out of context. Things sure can get tense. The good news is, it doesn't have to be that way. Let's face it, any workplace can be a minefield of misunderstandings, hurt feelings, and even conflict. If handled properly, these uncomfortable moments – or even small explosions – can be transformed into gateways that lead to better working relationships and a more inclusive workplace. That is why Dr. Sondra Thiederman calls them “Gateway Events.”
The Benefits: Opening a gateway to conversation – and holding it open – rather than slamming it shut in fear or anger has immeasurable benefits. These include:
How to Turn Tension Around Converting tense moments into productive conversation requires skill. That's what this video training package is all about. Through a series of vignettes, your team will learn:
"Gateways is a practical training tool for any organization that is working on fostering an inclusive workplace. Through realistic vignettes, Dr. Thiederman provides clear steps to avert diversity conflicts and convert them into opportunities for productive conversations. The scenarios will resonate with any organization as will the tools to address the disconnects." Rohini Anand, Senior Vice-President and Chief Diversity Officer Sodexo
"Gateways to Inclusion is a powerful video. It shows how tension and disrespect can derail even the best of intentions. This is definitely an effective tool to use in preparing leaders and employees for tough conversations that can lead to productive outcomes." Effenus Henderson, Vice-President, Diversity Weyerhaeuser Company
"In an increasingly diverse world, you can count on running into a tense moment at some point. This video, Gateways to Inclusion, gives people the basic tools and insights for turning potential breakdowns into breakthroughs. Everyone can benefit from this honest, direct, practical, and extremely well executed tool for building inclusion." Michael Wheeler, Assoc. Director of Diversity OMNICOMEMEDIA GROUP