Talking About Race @ Work
Why This Conversation Matters
Race is often a topic that goes unspoken in many environments, especially at work. Because of how individuals experience Race, there can be many different reactions when it comes up in a conversation. Despite the discomfort, Race is one of the top three Diversity Topics that teams would like to address at work. However, real fear and anxiety about saying the “wrong thing”, being expected to teach everyone, or having different perspectives can stop a conversation before it even starts. This Team Talk is designed to support teams by fostering a safe space for a meaningful and open conversations about Race that will increase learning, understanding, empathy and real connection, which are key elements for a high-performing team.
Goals of this Team Talk:
Explore and understand why race can be difficult for us to discuss at work
Appreciate the value of talking about race at work
Help team members have a productive conversation about race and create a more inclusive environment through thoughtful bravery
EACH TEAM TALK YOU PURCHASE WILL INCLUDE A WARM-UP EXERCISE, A CONVERSATION GUIDE, AND A CONVERSATION TOOLKIT
The Warm-Up
This is a self-awareness exercise – Team Leaders will send out this document to their team before the Team Talk to get individuals thinking about the topic and “warm up” to the concept of sharing during the session.
The Conversation Guide
This tool is for the Team Leader and it provides a suggested flow for leading the conversation and getting the team talking. The guides are easy to follow, yet open enough to allow each team to shape their experience together. Every conversation ends with an invitation to practice and build upon the learning together.
The Conversation Toolkit
These are the visuals and handouts that make the session more engaging.