Are you creating an inclusive workplace?

Last week I attended a convention in Philadelphia, but as an attendee, not a speaker!  It was the annual gathering of my American professional colleagues, all members of the National Speakers’ Association, and it was a great opportunity for me to rekindle relationships, swap “road” stories, and leave rejuvenated and refreshed.  Even though I am Canadian, the close proximity of our two countries means that I have many amongst their ranks that I consider my good friends.  As is tradition in their association, on the final evening of the convention, five speakers were recognized and honoured by their peers by admission into the American Speaker Hall of Fame.  As the winners were announced, each came up on stage and (as you might expect :)) gave a very moving speech of acceptance.  What struck me the most was the similarity of two of their stories. Continue reading →