In cultures across the world, communication can be structured or unstructured. What’s normal in conversations in one culture - like interruptions or making eye contact - may be considered rude or disruptive in another. The more we learn about different communication styles and non-verbal cues, and how to facilitate input, the more respectful and inclusive we can be. (5 min)

It can be tempting to react to negative situations or behavior with more negativity, but often this will escalate conflict rather than de-escalate. Learn how to use positive language and tone to effectively de-escalate issues or tense situations. (4 min) 

When we make decisions that have a significant impact or affect other people, we need to slow down and use our big gear. Learn how to switch gears and ensure you are making informed and unbiased decisions. (4 min)

This lesson focuses on active listening as a critical workplace skill and gives concrete ways to practice and improve our ability to actively listen to each other. (5 min)

This lesson teaches inclusive networking — we tend to talk to the same people each day, but by intentionally networking with people who aren’t like you, you’ll gain new perspectives, and learn about new ideas, tools, and trends. (4 min)

We don't always respond well when we are told something we said or did is problematic. Learn best practices when receiving criticism or feedback, and how to correct non-inclusive behaviors and language. (3 mins)

Gathering all the facts and information available before making a decision is crucial to successful outcomes. This lesson teaches the skills to ensure you have all the pertinent information when making decisions, troubleshooting potential issues, etc. (3 min)

Giving feedback is an important tool in correcting behavior. And it can be tricky — especially when we are pressed for time or in the middle of an important task or project. Learn the best methods for providing fast and effective feedback. (3 min)

People who are experiencing negative emotions like sadness, anxiety, or fear will benefit from the support of others, especially when placed in demanding work situations. Listening with empathy contributes to healthy workplaces by showing people you care and support them. (4 min)

How to Intervene with Skill 

Intervening when you see problematic behavior can be scary, but it's critical to creating a supportive and successful workplace. Learn the best practices when intervening to confront bias. (4 min)

Microaggressions are comments or actions that unintentionally, but subtly reinforce a bias or stereotype about a specific group or characteristic. Learning to identify microaggressions when you see them is a key step in stopping and preventing them. (3 min)

Words and phrases with problematic origins have made their way into our vocabulary and some have become common industry terms. It's our responsibility to retire and replace these terms and phrases. (4 mins)

Interpreting Emotion in Cross-Cultural Communication

How we express emotion is often based on our cultural background. Some cultures are more enthusiastic and expressive, while others are more solemn or reserved. Because of this, communication becomes strained when people with different levels of emotional expression interact. When we understand others’ communication patterns we can respond in productive ways. (5 min) 

Intervention Method: Direct

Lesson Resource: Intervention Method: Direct Skill-Building Tipsheet 

Intervention Method: Distract

Intervention Method: Delay

Intervention Method: Delegate

Intervention Method: Document

One of the most important skills a manager or leader learns is when to step back and allow someone else to take the reins. It requires trusting others, and knowing when someone else may be better equipped to execute a certain project or task. It can feel risky but it's also crucial to innovation and growth. (4 min)

Recognizing “maternal wall” bias, and addressing the ways in which ideas about motherhood and gender roles create barriers to women’s advancement in the workplace. (4 min)

This lesson focuses on the skill of monitoring for signs of exclusion in group dynamics as a first step in fostering an inclusive work environment. (5 min)

A co-worker (a new mom) may have a need that is not met by the workplace (lactation rooms), which makes it hard for them to be their authentic selves at work. We can increase awareness of others' needs by listening and tapping internal and external resources, to create a more inclusive workplace. (3 min)

Prove It Again Bias

Learn how to identify and mitigate “prove it again” bias by understanding how gender and racial bias impact hiring and promotion decisions. (4 min)

The ability to recognize bias is an important component of critical thinking and making strong decisions. Recognizing bias involves recognizing patterns. (4 min)

Responding vs Reacting 

When faced with stressful situations, our "fight or flight" instinct is triggered and we often react quickly without thinking things through. This can result in us relying on our unconscious biases to inform decisions or make decisions that will cause a situation to escalate. Learn how to slow down and respond to situations rather than reacting. (4 min)

When working across different cultures, it is important to understand priorities and social norms. Where one culture may value fast and direct communication and welcome open debate and quick decisions, another culture may value formal and polite interactions, reputation protection, and thoughtful consideration over time. When we frame our conversations to align with different social and cultural needs, we are more likely to have successful collaboration. (5 min)

By understanding our current patterns of thinking, we can make the conscious choice to disrupt or challenge them, especially those that are rooted in bias. As we retrain ourselves, we stop jumping to conclusions, and instead, we open ourselves to new possibilities. (4 min)

The Principles of Inclusive Language

Learn how to identify and practice using inclusive language with 6 simple principles. (3 mins)

Learn to identify “tightrope” bias and understand how stereotypes affect advancement opportunities for women, people of color, and other “out-group” members. (4 min)

Identifying how structures like tokenism and other biases create a "tug of war" or unproductive conflict between women, people of color, and other members of non-dominant groups. (3 min)

Using Multiple Intervention Methods

This lesson reviews how to use multiple upstander intervention techniques simultaneously to more effectively stop problematic behavior and reduce harm. (4 min)

While it can be tempting to use negative language to tell people when their behavior isn't appropriate, positive language that shows appreciation and respect often yields better results. Learn to use positive language to guide people toward behaviors you want to see. (3 min)