Page 17 - LRCC Jan 2023 FOCUS

create a more engaged and productive workplace.
Though sometimes relationships develop naturally on a LRCC Diversity, Equity &
team, it is important for leaders to work to foster more
connections. Inclusion Partners

Dr. Tonya Bailey, who has led professional development
programs for the LRCC team over the past 18 months PRESENTING SPONSORS
says a connected workplace allows leaders the
opportunity to share control and resources. A workforce
that is connected will embrace and appreciate remote
work learning, celebrate diverse communities, and will
allow for collaboration throughout the organization
so everyone can be on the same page and be creative
in the work that they do. Dr. Bailey emphasizes the
importance for organizations to move away from top-
down leadership approach to a model where the leader
understands that everyone is unique and has a voice to
contribute to the success of the organization.

“The most valuable asset that the organization has is
the employee,” said Dr. Bailey. “Organizations need DIVERSITY SPONSORS
to provide opportunity for employee feedback and
engaging conversations which will serve to energize
the organization and ensure every employee feels
values, heard, accepted and appreciated.”

Dr. Bailey also emphasizes the importance of involving
employees at all levels in company decision making.
She points to the post-COVID decisions around
returning to work and suggests that companies that
involved employees in the decision around new work
policies have had the smoothest transition and greatest INCLUSION & EQUITY SPONSORS
success.

Employment connection is more than just social
engagement. Employment connection is creating
a company culture that is inclusive, builds trust and
provides a sense of belonging. STRATEGIC & MANAGING PARTNER

It is important for leaders to work to foster more
connections.

Willis emphasizes the importance of involving
employees to having a voice and making sure leaders
are listening. Acknowledging any employee who speaks to create a sense of support. Getting to know your
up will show your employees that their opinion matters employees as people helps them feel more invested in
and are being valued which helps to building trust. their roles and personal development goals. It is also a
great way to seek how employees are balancing their
“Hearing recommendations from employees at all levels work and personal life.
when your organization is making a critical decision
helps problem-solving faster. It is also important to “Organizations should include a mentorship program,
have a company culture that provides psychological inherit DEI learning among different cultures and
safety which encourages team members to be their backgrounds in the organization and build an
authentic selves,” said Willis. employee engagement strategy. Making team
members feel like they are a part of the organization
Organizations can also go the extra mile building and keeping that open dialogue of constant
more connections by having executives and managers communication and feedback with everyone enables a
having one on one interactions with employees sense of belonging,” said Willis.

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