Thought Exchange Feedback: Reflection on inclusive meetings in the workplace
Posted on Monday, October 24th, 2022
How can we as employees and managers ensure meetings and collaborations are more inclusive? After combing through the insightful feedback from the Algonquin College equity, diversity and inclusion ThoughtExchange, this theme has proven another important one for our communities to consider meaningfully as we search for and implement strategies toward achieving a more inclusive work environment overall.
Many thoughts which were submitted in weeks one and two touched on the need for better forethought, planning, and structure. Together, we should be forming and storming new habits which keep diversity of thought, opinion and experience top of mind, especially when meeting and collaborating. When exploring disability and accommodations in week three, the theme of inclusive meetings proved relevant as well. Putting new practices in place will require effort and consideration from not only managers, but from all employees.
Here are some of the thoughts which made specific mention of inclusive meetings & inclusive collaboration:
Week One Thought Ranked #2 of 133
be mindful that not all disabilities are apparent, therefore for meetings/events, ask if any accommodations are needed some people are shy to bring up, but if question is asked beforehand, maybe they will ask for accommodation
Week Three Thought Ranked #27 of 37
More proactive asking/checking in for all employees by management about needing accommodations vs I have to be the one to reach out. More check ins about meetings, team buildings etc about what employee’s accommodation needs are. More centering of disability in our planning ie masks
Week One Thought Ranked #38 of 133
Create and reinforce safe space principles at team meetings. Help employees to feel safe, a sense of belonging and confidence to make their voice heard.
Week One Thought Ranked #109 of 133
Offer Hybrid meetings whenever possible. Zoom mtgs offered those who are introverts a chance to type in thoughts in chat. They may not have during in person mtgs.
Week One Thought Ranked #46 of 133
Ensure all around the table at meetings have a chance to share/speak. Diversity isn’t just about who is at the table, it’s about leveraging a collection of diverse viewpoints for success.
Week One Thought Ranked #56 of 133
If you’re going to say someone’s name in meetings, take the time to learn how to pronounce it correctly, for all team members regardless of background Using a name is a way of recognizing a person’s uniqueness in a respectful way
If you are interested in learning more about inclusive meetings and collaboration, check out these LinkedIn Learning classes! (click HERE if you don’t yet have your LinkedIn learning access set up)
Click Here to access the collection of Linked In Learnings on Inclusive Meeting Practices
Click HERE to access the Developing Inclusive Meetings video on LinkedIn Learning
If you have thoughts to share on the formation of employee led networks for college employees who share a particular identity characteristic, we highly encourage you to take part in week four of the ThoughtExchange, where we are asking:
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