Isn’t it amazing how we can find an individual with just the skills our organization needs, then attempt to change that person so they think and act more like us? Here’s a free animated video clip that shows how unwelcoming organizations can be when it comes to diversity.  

Recommended Training Resource: Anyone Can Be An Ally  Featuring subject matter expert Brian McNaught and commentary from numerous individuals, this program puts a face on issues that confront LGBT workers. Viewers learn about unwelcoming vs. welcoming behaviors and are shown how to build a workplace where everyone feels comfortable and fully able to contribute.

I need someone, anyone, now… just put butts in chairs — I don’t care about quality.

This must be one of the most feared phrases that a good recruiter can hear, unfortunately, it and phrases like it are not uncommon. A better name for it is “reckless hiring,” as such demands are essentially a directive to source candidates who are the real-world equivalent to Homer Simpson. While I certainly understand the pain a vacancy, particularly one in a highly visible role, can cause, such shortsightedness often ends up backfiring. Read the rest of this entry »

Your personality, culture, needs and personal challenges collectively affect your ability to communicate with others. To effectively communicate with anyone in social or professional settings, you must develop a specific set of skills. Here are some ways that you can improve your ability to talk to people from a variety of backgrounds. Read the rest of this entry »