March 2024

Inclusivity through Intergenerational Leadership

Intergenerational leadership fosters the exchange of diverse perspectives, experiences, and knowledge, leading to innovation, continuity, and sustainable growth across generations. With that in mind, it was awesome to have kick-started such an invigorating panel discussion at The Shard for Warwick Business School's celebration of International Women's Day 2024.?

The focus on intergenerational leadership was timely and pivotal in shedding light on leadership dynamics across different generations. Sharing the stage with esteemed panellists,?Maya Welford, Marina Antoniou, Maddy Howlett, was an honour. Their unique perspectives and collective wisdom enriched our conversation, allowing us to explore the intricacies and beauty of leadership that transcends generational boundaries!

A heartfelt thank you to our exceptional moderator, Ekaterina Smirnova whose skill and grace in navigating our discussion were crucial to its impact.?

To all who attended (there were 100 of you!) your active participation and enthusiasm were the core of this event. Your insightful questions and contributions greatly enriched our discussion, making it a genuinely collective and profound experience.? Thank you for the opportunity to contribute to such a vital conversation alongside such inspiring leaders and changemakers. Here's to more meaningful dialogues, collaborations, and strides in our collective journey towards fostering inclusive, diverse, and intergenerational leadership. ?

Returning to work after a career break

There are many reasons people take career breaks, whether for family, health, personal growth, or exploration. All are equally valid, and important. But there are unique hurdles that come with re-entering the professional realm.? Some real, some we create ourselves. It takes a lot of self-confidence, conquering imposter phenomenon, and

to walk back into a role after some time away. The world of work moves quickly...what if we can't keep up? ?

I hosted a workshop for the University of Warwick this week on how to overcome these scenarios, where we uncovered the keys to professional reintegration. We looked at the vital role of understanding and leveraging your personal brand, a cornerstone for a successful comeback. We talked about why knowing your 'why' – the driving purpose behind your career choices – will fuel your motivation and guide your path to success.

I love running these sessions, because you can see first hand the switch in mindset that the participants go through, and their confidence in themselves growing throughout. Have you ever had a career break? How did you find your return to work? Reply to let me know. ?

The importance of Inclusive Leadership

"The Standard You Walk Past is the Standard You Accept" - Lt. Gen. David Morrison

This quote came up in a recent workshop, and I found it really powerful.? It highlights the impact of our silence on non-inclusive behaviour and the pivotal role of those in leadership in addressing it. Morrison's stand against disrespect in his ranks highlighted a critical lesson: Leadership is not just about guidance, but about setting the moral compass for acceptable behaviour.?

By confronting rather than ignoring issues, Morrison demonstrated the importance of being accountable, and having the courage to speak up. This principle applies universally, especially to those of us in leadership roles.? Seeing behaviour that excludes or disrespects others and choosing silence is a form of endorsement.?

It’s essential to remember that our actions and inactions alike set standards. Speaking up against non-inclusivity isn't just an act of courage; it's an obligation.? Together, we can shape a culture that values respect and inclusivity. Did you resonate with this quote? Let me know

Thanks for reading this month's Talent Talk; I'll be back in April with further thoughts and reflections on everything EDI in the workplace.

Have a great month!