Career Development
Susan Morris, M.Ed., CPCC, ACC
President
Susan Morris Coaching
Doylestown, Pennsylvania
Lara Kallander, PhD, MAPP, ACC
Founder
Thriving Though Adversity Coaching
Lexington, Massachusetts
In this VUCA world (volatile, uncertain, complex, ambiguous), when working from home creates isolation and disconnection, it can be daunting to be outnumbered in the workplace and yet finding a way to be included and invite others into our circle. This workshop examines the concept of belonging as a concept to improve our business and personal success. Belonging is a critical psychological need, something that if nurtured, supports physical well-being as well as feelings of connection and leading a meaningful life. Individuals, managers and leaders must create a psychologically safe space, a welcoming work environment, where teammates, peers, and direct reports can openly and authentically share their successes and what was learned through failure.
Belonging can be challenging to achieve when working in scientific fields, particularly with regard to gender or ethnicity, or because of stereotype threat, such as women may struggle to succeed in STEM jobs. By supporting diversity in thought in scientific research areas, innovation and problem solving will be enhanced, thus scientific outcomes improve. In this way, belonging, which is an enabler for women and minorities to thrive, will also deliver better scientific research, which is better for scientists and society at large.