Authentic Self at WORK? To BE or NOT to BE - That is the question!

HR Reimagined: SHRM Northern California Annual Conference 2021

If you have ever analyzed the results of an employee engagement survey, no doubt you have seen the direct correlation between recognition/appreciation and active sustainable engagement. Employees who feel appreciated and valued, tend to have consistently strong deliverables. With the renewed resurgence of intentionality around addressing diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace, many organizations are encouraging their employees to bring their whole selves to work. To be authentic. Leaders purport that authenticity in the workplace aides in breaking down those artificial or historical barriers that have been allowed to remain and lie dormant within the workplace ecosystem.

Yet, there are others who say, that the workplace is NOT a place for authenticity. Being authentic at work is career stagnation at best, if not career suicide, especially for individuals typically represented by a historically marginalized group. They argue that yes, while on its face, organizations tout inclusivity at all levels, but their overall actions suggest that what they really mean is assimilation and alignment.

In this action-pack, interactive session, participants will be able unleash their intellectual curiosity. Intentionally facilitated with data, facts, points for consideration, stories from the ground floor and personal experiences, this is a must conversation for anyone interested in seeking awareness; considering NEXT practices and gaining a better understanding of the necessities, yet complexities of creating and cultivating a truly inclusive workplace where BELONGING IS the norm.

Let the conversation begin…

Learning Objectives:

In this action-pack, interactive session, participants will be able unleash their intellectual curiosity. Intentionally facilitated with data, facts, points for consideration, stories from the ground floor and personal experiences, this is a must conversation for anyone interested in:

  • Seeking awareness around why employees may or may want to bring their whole selves to work.
  • Considering NEXT practices in addressing both sides of the aisle: Yes, be authentic vs. No, I cant!
  • Gaining a better understanding of the necessities, yet complexities of creating and cultivating a truly inclusive workplace where BELONGING IS the norm. 
Date(s) & Time(s): 
Friday, September 24, 2021 - 11:15am to 12:15pm
Presenter: 

Stacey Lewis

Stacey
Lewis, SHRM-SCP, IPMA-CE,CPE

Stacey Lewis is the CHRO/Director of Human Resources for the Port of Long Beach, the second-busiest seaport in the United States, with approximately 530 employees and generates annual operating revenues in excess of $300 million. Stacey has over 30 years of professional human resources experience, both in the private and public sectors. Prior to joining the Port, Stacey established her own Human Resources consulting company and worked as the Human Resources Manager – Civil Service for the City of Torrance. A dynamic and well-sought after “transformational” speaker and self-proclaimed disruptor, Stacey received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of the Pacific. She also holds a Human Resources Management Certification from Loyola Marymount University, as well as several professional HR designations/certification. Stacey is a former Commissioner for the Long Beach Unified School District Personnel Commission, as well as she holds several leadership positions on a number of local boards. Never losing sight of her passion to re-engineer the HR agenda, Stacey is the Creator and Chief Influencer of HR Interrupted., an online community for HR Influencers with GRIT who unapologetically interrupt historical workplace ideologies/practices through inspiration and insight.

In addition to being tenacious about her professional career and following her purpose and passion to encourage people, especially women to live their very best lives, Stacey formerly served as a Host on everywaywoman.com, a local cable and internet talk-show committed to celebrating everyday women in every way. She also hosted a local radio show on Accelerated radio.net. Her professional, relationship and parenting advice has been featured on several websites, publications and TV shows including the Rachael Ray Show and Ebony and Parenting magazine. Yet, after being everything to everybody for so long, Stacey took a step back (both personally and professionally) and decided to spend some quality time with and on herself. Due to her amazing story and journey of weathering abuse, she was selected as one of America’s Women Heroes for the ABC day-time talk show, The Revolution. Most recently, Stacey was one of the main stage presenters for the YPO International Conference, where she electrified the 5000 plus attendees with her story of personal healing and redemption. However, at the end of the day, when the business meetings and interviews have concluded and the cameras stop rolling, Stacey finds complete solace with her husband of 28 years and their three children

Session Type: 
Concurrent Session
Competency: 
Global & Cultural Effectiveness
Intended Audience: 
All Levels
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Availability: