Our Search for Belonging: Creating Inclusion at Work in a Time of Separation

Based on the newly released book of the same name, this presentation will help people understand the divide by looking at the neurocognitive science behind our primary need to belong, how it motivates human behavior and how it shows up in our daily lives. We will explore the paradoxical manner in which our compulsion to connect with other human beings creates greater polarity in our culture, leaving us deeply connected with some yet deeply divided as a society. And yet, the workplace may be the best place to learn to cross some of these divisions and create a new sense of belonging. Our primary purpose will be to help participants understand the depth and impact of this separation and how it affects every aspect of our daily lives, and explore what we can do about it! Attendees will:

• Gain a deeper understanding of the neurocognitive science behind bias, as well as the evidence-based research that explains the impact it has on everyday interactions and decision-making in organizations.
• Interpret some of their own patterns of beliefs, identity and perception so they are better able to support inclusion for others.
• Learn how bias can impact critical decisions and results, and ways to mitigate that impact.
• Understand and advocate for strategies in their organizations to reduce the impact of bias internally and in the organization's relationships with clients and stakeholders.
• Take their current organizational inclusion efforts to a new level.