Name: How to train employees to have difficult conversations
Uploaded: 2018-07-20T14:39:31Z
Duration: 8 min 1 s
Description: It's time to invest in face-to-face training that empowers employees to have difficult conversations, says Tamekia MizLadi Smith. In a witty, provocative talk, Smith shares a workplace training program called "I'm G.R.A.C.E.D." that will inspire bosses and employees alike to communicate with compassion and respect. Bottom line: always let people know why their work matters.

It's time to invest in face-to-face training that empowers employees to have difficult conversations, says Tamekia MizLadi Smith. In a witty, provocative talk, Smith shares a workplace training program called "I'm G.R.A.C.E.D." that will inspire bosses and employees alike to communicate with compassion and respect. Bottom line: always let people know why their work matters.

How to train employees to have difficult conversations

Data is gathered constantly by front-line staff, from grocery clerks to hospital registrars, yet many struggle when faced with sensitive questions about identity. One employee, shocked by being told to ask patients about gender, race, and ethnicity, considered early retirement rather than adapt. Poorly handled conversations can lead to bad data, which drives inequity and worsens social outcomes. Empowering staff to ask tough questions with empathy and clarity helps organizations get the data they need while building respect and inclusion.