Kelly McDonald

How to Work With & Lead People Not Like You
We all know that a diverse workforce leads to better decisions and solutions- it has been proven to grow business and profits.

But when the person in the next cube or office is different from you, friction can arise. Different people may not see eye-to-eye on an issue. They may have vastly different approaches to work. Their communication styles may be very different. Their comfort in working with tech­ nology may be miles apart. They may see work as a formal environment or one that is casual. They may even have different reasons and motivations for working in the first place. Cultural backgrounds and norms can differ. Even men and women can see situations differently. How do you work alongside someone who may be quite different from you, respect those differ ences and be effective in your role?

And what about leading a diverse team? Leaders face daily the challenges of inspiring, communicating and executing strategy with their teams. Now imagine the challenges of leading teams that may be incredibly diverse! How does one motivate and lead groups of people who come from different backgrounds? How do you do that when people are moti­ vated by different values and view the world and work through different lenses?

This session will cover the many ways we can be different from one another and how those differences manifest themselves in work situations. It will show how employees can succeed in today's diverse workplace without losing their minds or becoming frustrated by approaches to work that may differ from theirs. For those in leadership positions, or those who aspire to manage and lead others, this session will identify key ways in which you can effectively com­ municate, guide, and lead associates and colleagues who are not like you.

Whether you're working with internal associates or external clients and customers, it's impera­ tive that you know what motivates people- and what doesn't. Leadership isn't about seniority or position- it's about influence, forming connections and building trust. It's the ability to move the business forward.

Regardless of gender, age, life stage, race, ethnicity or even communication preferences, you'll learn to create a deep, values-based connection between you and your associates, clients and prospects.

Transformative Women's Leadership:
How to Move the Business Forward with the Teams You Lead

ABSTRACT:

What are the core capabilities for effective women's leadership? Assertiveness is a key one, but it's a widely misunderstood characteristic and a word with a lot of baggage, most of it negative. Some interpret it as being "bossy"; some interpret it as "standing your ground" or "speaking your mind" and some interpret it as "taking charge" or being aggressive.

Assertiveness is none of these things, yet it's an essential skill in business and a quality that all successful leaders have. And it IS a skill- it can be developed and honed, like any other skill. Effective assertive skills manifest themselves in better negotiating tactics, stronger leadership, better team performance and higher levels of employee engagement.

Often, women who work in predominantly male industries feel pressure to perform at their peak, while also not appearing to be seen as too "domineering." This balancing act requires women in executive roles (or rising stars at their company) to become more assertive, in order to lead effectively.

For many women, negotiating can be challenging because women tend to be "people pleasers" and often put the needs of the group (their team or your associates) before their own needs. Effective negotiating is not about "winning"- it's about ensuring that both par­ ties arrive at a place of mutual benefit. And being assertive is not at odds with teamwork- in fact, it is constructive for your team and your organization. Assertiveness is a management and performance quality that is highly charismatic and appealing.

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