Our Topic:

Cultivating Civil Conversations for Organizational Success

Our Speakers:

Carlene Goldthwaite (she/they)

Wednesday, October 16, 2024

11:30 am to 1:00 pm 

 **Unable to make it in person? Join us virtually!**

Mesa County Workforce Center

512 29 1/2 Road, Grand Junction, CO 81504

In recent years, business leaders and HR professionals have witnessed the business and social environments undergo many changes, and it is widely believed that we are currently at a pivotal moment. With five generations sharing the workplace and facing unique challenges in communication and collaboration, the road ahead feels both exciting and complex. As the 2024 elections loom, the potential for polarization to spill into workplaces increases.

This training session equips HR professionals with essential tools to transform workplace environments. Practicing civil behavior establishes a safe and empathetic atmosphere where individuals can contribute their best ideas, knowing they will be heard and valued. Civility transcends mere comfort; it aims to create a dynamic, diverse, and productive workplace where everyone can thrive.

The training also seeks to help individuals understand and counter their implicit biases, building capacity within communities to facilitate dialogue that fosters empathy. By taking proactive steps toward inclusion and civility, organizations can reap tangible benefits; employees thrive in environments where they feel valued and respected. In prioritizing these principles, organizations can enhance employee satisfaction and retention, creating a more harmonious and productive workplace.

Learning Objectives:

1. Understand the business rationale for cultivating civil conversations and their impact on employee engagement and retention.
2. Explore techniques for hosting effective test conversations that encourage open communication and innovation.
3. Identify and practice the behaviors essential for maintaining civility during difficult discussions.
4. Develop facilitation skills that empower leaders and team members to navigate challenging conversations effectively.

During this session, we’ll also view a video clip from Johnny C. Taylor, SHRM’s Executive Director, in which he outlines SHRM’s recent adoption of the terminology “Inclusion and Diversity.” Exciting new initiatives supporting SHRM’s I&D commitment will also be revealed.

Carlene Goldthwaite (she/they) is the principal of Create Real Growth and their career has included management, HR, and organizational development roles. Create Real Growth works with organizational leaders to develop an intentional culture in a work environment that is equitable and inclusive. While working in the retail, hospitality, and managed care industries, Carlene developed expertise in the entirety of the employee life cycle: from recruiting/selection through onboarding/training/development and safety/risk management to labor and employee relations. Clients of Create Real Growth include public and private sector organizations, non-profits, and individuals. Carlene lives in Fruita, Colorado where they enjoy performing in local plays and exploring the outdoors. Carlene is currently the Director of Inclusion & Diversity with the Western Colorado Human Resource Association.

AI-generated head shot (for fun!)