Inclusion In Meetings: Kieran Snyder On In-Person vs. Remote Dynamics

A recent study by linguist and former software executive Kieran Snyder sheds new light on the dynamics of remote versus in-person meetings, with surprising implications for workplace diversity and inclusion.

Kieran, founder of nerd processor and co-founder of Textio , joins the Radical Candor? podcast to explore inclusivity in meetings, revealing data-driven insights from her research on in-person versus remote settings with Kim Scott and Amy Sandler .

Key Findings On In-Person vs. Remote Meetings

• As meeting size increases, participation rates decrease, and this effect is more pronounced in remote meetings.
• Women's participation rates in meetings are significantly lower than men's, especially in larger meetings.
• Women's ideas are often taken without credit, and men are more likely to take credit for ideas.
• Idea spotlighting, where participants repeat and credit others' ideas, can promote inclusion in meetings. Both men and women are more likely to say 'I told you so' to people of their own gender.
• Software engineers say 'I told you so' seven times more often than everyone else.
• The size of meetings can impact participation, with a tipping point where it becomes difficult for everyone to contribute.
• Structured agendas can make a difference in meeting dynamics.
• Remote work offers benefits in terms of diversity, but clear communication and inclusive practices are essential.

Implications for Workplace Diversity

While remote work enables hiring from a broader, more diverse talent pool, the data suggests remote meetings may inadvertently stifle participation from underrepresented groups. This presents a challenge for leaders aiming to build both diverse and inclusive workplaces.

Strategies for More Inclusive Meetings:

1. Keep remote meetings smaller when possible (ideally under 6 participants)
2. Use structured agendas and active facilitation techniques
3. Leverage chat features for alternative participation methods
4. Practice "idea spotlighting" to amplify quieter voices
5. Be mindful of participation rates and seek ways to engage all attendees
6. Read this piece by Candor Coach Melissa (Mel) Andrada for more tips

There's no one-size-fits-all solution to the remote vs in-person debate. Leaders must thoughtfully consider how to balance the benefits of remote work flexibility with the need for inclusive collaboration.

Being transparent about workplace norms and expectations is crucial, allowing employees to make informed decisions about where they can thrive.

As workplaces continue to evolve, ongoing research and experimentation will be vital to creating truly inclusive environments, whether in-person, remote, or hybrid.

Tune in to the Radical Candor? Podcast to learn to love your job and kick a** at work without losing your humanity by practicing the principles of Radical Candor. Host and Lead Radical Candor Coach Amy Sandler leads discussions with Radical Candor Author and Co-founder Kim Scott and CEO and Co-founder Jason Rosoff about what it means to be Radically Candid, why it’s simple but not easy to Care Personally and Challenge Directly on the daily, and why it’s worth it. Want to bring Radical Candor to your team? Drew Muir or Dan Greene can help! Have a topic you want us to discuss? Email it to [email protected] .