Creating Inclusive Workplaces
Imagine a workplace that benefits everyone. What role do you play?
Inclusive Workplaces: What do we mean?
Over the last few days, I’ve asked people what creating inclusive workplaces looks like to them. As expected, answers varied, but the commonality across answers is that everything suggested seemed reasonable and fair.
Respecting different needs/preferences (scheduling time vs. popping by)
Allowed/encouraged to use tools that help you work (standing desk, ear plugs)
Considering the needs of all members for team bonding events/meals
Understanding that remote-first employees still need breaks from video meetings
Acknowledging that some people may be more sensitive to office noises, temperature, lighting, etc. and working to minimize discomfort
Thoughts? Anything surprise you? If an employee asked for something along these lines, would you know how to respond?
Many times, an inclusive workplace is one that honors reasonable accommodations without making people jump through hoops. If you are in the US, the Americans with Disabilities Act defines reasonable accommodations. To help remember the definition, I built the PANDAS model. Aside from being cute bears, their name also lines up with some key components to consider when requesting accommodations, or working on behalf of an employee to get something approved. Click the bears to read the article…but come back to this newsletter to read about voting for SXSW below!
Bringing ADHD to the SXSW Stage
I’ve written articles on inclusive workplaces, I’ve talked to Employee Resource Groups on how to plan neurodivergent-friendly meetings, and I’ve spoken at conferences on this topic. Now it’s time to bring this topic to a bigger stage! Together with some incredible folks, we want to bring ADHD programming to SXSW 2025.
South by Southwest® (SXSW®) Conference features a variety of tracks focused on important breakthroughs in technology, film, culture, and music. SXSW proves that the most unexpected discoveries happen when diverse topics and people come together. While the conference has featured some incredible talent, the topic of ADHD deserves it’s moment in the spotlight.
We need your vote! Visit the SXSW PanelPicker and upvote both ADHD panels.
I will join Margeaux Joffe,
, and Jaye Lin in a panel about creating ADHD-supportive workplaces that benefit everyone.
The second panel on ADHD features some talented creators. You can vote for each of the ADHD panels one time, and you can share the link with your networks. We are so grateful for your support in getting us to Austin, TX for SXSW! Please cast your votes by August 18.
Speaking of Conferences…
Earlier this week, I spent a day in the Coaches Corner at MILLSUMMIT. Conference attendees could sign up for 20-minute sessions with a variety of coaches. Check out my reflections on the conference here.
I am volunteering again in November at the PA Conference for Women in Philadelphia. If you plan to attend, check out the Coaches Corner for a free speed coaching session from the International Coaching Federation (ICF) Philadelphia Chapter!