Divine Diversity – Managing Religion in The Workplace
Religion, closely held beliefs, and spirituality have increased in relevance in our workplaces. More employers recognize the importance of employees presenting their authentic selves at work. For many employees, their beliefs are integral to their sense of meaning and purpose. The role of employers is to help foster an inclusive organizational culture which can lead to greater productivity and job satisfaction. For many workers, that means making room for their religious beliefs.
A 2021 Gallup poll shows three in four Americans identify with a specific religious faith. Despite this data, many employers tread carefully when addressing religion in the workplace due to discrimination, hostile behavior, or retaliation concerns.
Learning Objectives:
- Ways to integrate religious awareness into the workplace without creating distraction and division.
- Case studies that reinforce best practices for leading a faith-based organization.
- Tips on reasonably accommodating an employee's religious beliefs.
In-person session offerings are on a first-come, first-served basis.
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April Simpkins
April Simpkins is an HR professional with 30 years of executive-level Human Resources experience. She has worked with over 1,000 organiztions in 15 different industries helping to align people strategies with business goals. She is currently the Chief Human Resources Officer at Questco, a fast-growing national company that provides HR services to small and mid-sized companies. April, an international keynote speaker has shared her knowledge and expertise on the topics of leadership, culture, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), and mental health.
April, a Certified Diversity Professional (CDP)®, has created diversity initiatives for numerous medium- and large-size organizations. April is also a past Diversity Director For South Carolina SHRM. In 2020 April received the Unsung Hero Award from Greenville SHRM for her exemplary leadership in DEI. She has also received awards and honors for her business acumen including The 2020 Women In Business Achievement Award from the Charlotte Business Journal and being named one of Charlotte's 50 Most Influential Women by Mecklenburg Times.