In October, I had a video conversation with Amy Waterman, from Brilliance at Work, about how to communicate at work, with a focus on anti-racism, equity, and inclusion.
I've been writing and speaking about anti-racism and social justice more than ever in the last several months. As a small business owner, I feel a freedom to express what's on my heart now that I never felt when I was working for a large company. I realize I might alienate some clients, but that's okay...I want to attract clients who share my social responsibility values.
I shared with Amy that speaking one's truth can feel great but also terrifying. Maggie Kuhn, the founder of the Gray Panthers, said "Speak your mind, even if your voice shakes."
Amy and I spoke about how companies can start incorporating social messaging into their brands, especially if they have not done so before. I shared the story of how CH2M HILL, where I worked for 28 years, started out focusing on sustainability, and I shared steps companies can take if they want to work in this arena.
Amy asked me what companies or individuals should do if they get slammed for being tone deaf. I shared some communications strategies to navigate the minefield of making a public stand.
I offered practical tips and tools for companies and individuals to think before we speak, move corporate social responsibility from policy to action, promote anti-racism at work, solicit feedback, and constructively deal with the inevitable missteps. Watch the conversation here.