FountainBlue's August 12 When She Speaks program, on the topic of 'What He/She Said, What She/He Meant'. Please join me in thanking our hosts at Renesas and our esteemed panelists. We were fortunate to have such experienced, other-centric, and strategic leaders for this month's When She Speaks panel.
Our panel talked extensively about why it's important to have a diverse talent pool and open minded outlook. Benefits include improvements in innovation, culture, retention, talent acquisition, etc.,Our panelists also shared many thoughts on how to better communicate and connect with others, especially if they are not-like-you.
Connect for a Purpose.
Focus on connecting on a common goal which is of mutual importance.
Drive conversations around achieving that goal, rather than around personal issues.
Invite all parties to take a seat at the table, and contribute to that common purpose.
Trust in the good intentions of others.
Be Open-Minded.
Be open and curious about others and their differing perspectives.
Ask someone not-like-you what you might be missing.
Individuals, gender and styles will vary, just as culture and gender varies. Connecting with people not-like-you will help you to grow personally and professionally.
Be Other-Centric.
Meet people where they are. Include people because of where they are.
Be the mediator and translator where appropriate, to help connect the team to a common purpose.
Keep Growing and Learning.
Do your homework and research the backgrounds and perspectives of others not-like-you.
Embrace the opportunities to stretch and grow yourself and your team.
Ask questions so that you can better understand the perspective of others.
Communicate and Connect.
Communicate clearly and continually to ensure that's alignment, clarity, and a shared sense of purpose.
Check your assumptions, and the assumptions of others with whom you interact.
Voice your intentions and goals while inviting others to do the same.
Think, speak, and act in alignment with your values.
Be clear of your intentions and ensure that the impact is as you've intended.
Own your words and actions and strive to be better, do better.
Listen closely and deeply with empathy.
Our panelists closed by encouraging us all to embrace our differences while connecting to a purpose and a sense of belonging.