Responding Productively to Microaggressions at Work

Microaggressions are “brief and commonplace verbal, behavioral, and environmental indignities, whether intentional or unintentional, that communicate hostile, derogatory, or negative slights and insults that potentially have harmful or unpleasant psychological impact on the target person or group.” Dealing effectively with microaggressions at work requires a willingness to: shift our perspective, sit with uncomfortable feelings, de-escalate our own emotions, and be curious about others’ experiences.

In this interactive session we’ll examine various types of microaggression and how they show up in the workplace. We’ll explore the importance of separating intention from impact in order to drive productive dialogue and connection. Using real-life scenarios, we will practice responding in ways that are productive and authentic, creating a foundation for a work culture of engagement and inclusion.