Psychological Safety for Leaders

Psychological Safety for Leaders

A cartoon woman sits in front of a blue wall with chairs and a yellow light.

Psychological Safety for Leaders

In today’s fast-paced and high-pressure environments, leaders are expected to deliver results, drive innovation, and nurture a resilient organizational culture. But how can leaders achieve these goals while fostering trust, collaboration, and openness within their teams?

The answer lies in psychological safety.

Psychological Safety for Leaders is an engaging and practical workshop designed to equip leaders, executives, and managers with the tools and strategies to create a culture where individuals feel safe to speak up, take risks, and contribute their best ideas. This session goes beyond theory, offering real-world examples, interactive discussions, and actionable practices tailored to the unique challenges of leadership.

Participants will explore the essentials of psychological safety, including how to navigate power dynamics, lead effective 1-1s, and foster inclusive team environments. The workshop also emphasizes the importance of leaders caring for their own psychological safety, ensuring they can lead with resilience and authenticity. Whether you’re managing a team, leading an organization, or shaping strategy at the executive level, this workshop will empower you to lead with confidence and compassion.

 

Learning Objectives

  • Understand Psychological Safety in Leadership: Learn the theory and evidence behind psychological safety and its impact on team performance and innovation.
  • Develop Leadership Behaviors: Explore practical strategies and behaviors to foster trust, openness, and collaboration within your teams.
  • Navigate Power Dynamics: Gain insights into managing hierarchies, 1-1s, and meetings to create a safe and inclusive environment.
  • Address Diversity in Teams: Learn how cultural and neurodiversity influence psychological safety and how to lead inclusively across differences.
  • Care for Your Own Psychological Safety: Discover strategies to maintain your resilience and well-being as a leader while fostering a positive team culture.

 

Why This Workshop Matters

Psychological safety is the foundation of high-performing teams and resilient organizations. As a leader, your ability to create and sustain this environment is key to unlocking your team’s full potential. Join us for this transformative workshop and take the first step toward becoming a leader who inspires trust, innovation, and success.

Programme Format
The Psychological Safety for Leaders workshop is designed to fit seamlessly into your busy schedule, with flexible session durations ranging from 1.5 to 4 hours. This interactive and hands-on training combines theory, real-world examples, and practical exercises to ensure an engaging learning experience. Tailored to the unique challenges of leadership, the session encourages active participation, group discussions, and self-reflection, empowering leaders to apply their new skills immediately.

 

Hire Vivian Acquah CDE® to speak at your next event
or hire her for workshops!

Vivian is a great speaker who knows how to inspire an audience and convey a powerful message in a safe environment.

Vivian is available for virtual keynotes, events, summits, workshops, roundtable discussions, webinars and podcast interviews.

She knows how to inspire managers, inclusion professionals, HR professionals, L&D professionals and decision makers who want to do better when it comes to strengthening inclusion & employee sustainability.

Warning: it is important to share that Vivian Acquah CDE® may sometimes talk about food during a presentation or a lecture, a few times during this talk. Please have your (healthy) snacks ready. Vivian Acquah cannot be held responsible for any (unhealthy) cravings.

Inclusion Training/ Workshops

Psychological Safety for Leaders

What is Psychological Safety for Leaders?

Psychological safety for leaders means creating an environment where team members feel safe to express ideas, voice concerns, and admit errors without fear of reprisal. As a leader, you model vulnerability by sharing your own challenges. This builds trust, encourages open dialogue, and unlocks team potential.

Leaders who prioritise it foster innovation, better decisions, and higher engagement. It’s about making everyone feel valued and heard, transforming how teams collaborate and perform.

Elevate your team’s performance with the Psychological Safety for Leaders training!

 

 

Why is Psychological Safety Important for Leaders?

It helps leaders unlock team potential by encouraging open communication. Safe teams make fewer errors, innovate more, and stay engaged. Without it, fear stops people from speaking up, harming performance. Leaders who foster it see improved results, loyalty, and adaptability. It’s key for modern workplaces facing rapid change.

Elevate your team’s performance with the Psychological Safety for Leaders training!

 

 

 

How Can Leaders Build Psychological Safety?

Leaders start by admitting their own mistakes and asking for feedback. They listen without interrupting and thank people for input. Set clear rules against blame and celebrate learning from failures. Hold regular check-ins to build trust. Consistency over time creates a safe space where teams thrive.

Elevate your team’s performance with the Psychological Safety for Leaders training!

 

 

 

What Does a Psychologically Safe Team Look Like?

In a safe team, people freely share ideas in meetings, challenge decisions respectfully, and report problems early. Errors are discussed openly for lessons, not shame. Everyone feels valued, regardless of role. Leaders notice high energy, creativity, and quick problem-solving as signs of success.

Elevate your team’s performance with the Psychological Safety for Leaders training!

 

 

 

How Should Leaders Respond to Feedback?

Leaders should thank the giver, reflect on it calmly, and follow up with actions. Avoid defensiveness or excuses. Show how feedback improves decisions. This builds trust and encourages more input. Over time, it strengthens relationships and team performance.

Elevate your team’s performance with the Psychological Safety for Leaders training!

 

 

 

What are Common Barriers to Psychological Safety?

Barriers include blame culture, hierarchy that silences juniors, or leaders who dismiss ideas. Micromanaging or ignoring diversity also harms it. Past negative experiences make people cautious. Leaders must address these by modelling openness and fairness.

Elevate your team’s performance with the Psychological Safety for Leaders training!

 

 

 

How Can Leaders Measure Psychological Safety?

Use simple surveys asking if people feel safe to speak up or admit errors. Observe participation in meetings and track voluntary feedback. Monitor turnover and engagement levels. Regular anonymous checks help leaders spot issues early and improve.

Elevate your team’s performance with the Psychological Safety for Leaders training!

 

 

 

How Long Does It Take to Create Psychological Safety?

It can take weeks for initial trust but months for deep safety. Leaders need consistent effort like daily positive actions. Quick wins build momentum, but full change requires patience and reinforcement. Results grow with time and commitment.

Elevate your team’s performance with the Psychological Safety for Leaders training!

 

 

 

Psychological Safety Training for Teams

Psychological Safety Training for Teams

Amplify Empathie met Virtual Reality BNR Radio Kennisplatform Inclusief Samenleven Effectieve antidiscriminatie-interventie Vivian Acquah Anita Abaisa

Psychological Safety Training for Teams

 

A team’s true potential is unlocked when every member feels safe to speak up, take risks, and collaborate openly. Psychological Safety Training for Teams is an engaging and practical workshop designed to help teams build trust, improve communication, and create a culture where everyone thrives.

In this interactive session, participants will explore what psychological safety really means, why it’s essential for high-performing teams, and how to embed it into everyday team interactions. Through real-world case studies, hands-on exercises, and meaningful conversations, your team will learn how to strengthen collaboration, give and receive feedback effectively, and navigate challenges together.

Each workshop is tailored to your team’s unique needs and challenges, ensuring that the tools and strategies you gain are immediately applicable. By the end of the session, your team will leave with a shared understanding, a stronger sense of connection, and practical steps to continue fostering psychological safety in your workplace.

Learning objectives

  1. Understand Psychological Safety: Learn what it is and why it is the foundation of high-performing team success.
  2. Build Everyday Habits: Develop practical strategies to embed psychological safety into daily meetings and feedback.
  3. Strengthen Trust and Communication: Engage in exercises designed to improve open dialogue and interpersonal trust.
  4. Define Team Standards: Collaboratively design a Team Charter to align on shared behaviors and core values.
  5. Drive Continuous Improvement: Learn to run effective retrospectives and commit to tangible actions for a stronger culture.

 

What’s Included:

  • Tailored Workshop: A session customized to your team’s context, challenges, and goals.
  • Interactive Exercises: Hands-on activities and real conversations to build trust and collaboration.
  • Valuable Resources: Tools and materials to continue developing psychological safety beyond the session.
  • Psychological Safety Certificate: A credential to recognize your team’s commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive environment.

 

Format
Psychological Safety Training for Teams is an interactive workshop ranging from 4 hours to 2 days. Delivered virtually or in person, with time built in for peer-to-peer interaction with the audience and Q&A.

 

Why This Workshop Matters

Psychological safety is the foundation of a thriving team. It empowers individuals to share ideas, take risks, and work together effectively. Whether your team is newly formed or well-established, this workshop will help you create a culture where everyone feels valued, heard, and supported.

Reach out to unlock your team’s full potential and build a stronger, more connected workplace!

 

Interested in having Vivian Acquah CDE® speak at your
next event or hire her for workshops?

Vivian is a great speaker who knows how to inspire an audience and convey a powerful message in a safe environment.

Vivian is available for virtual keynotes, events, summits, workshops, roundtable discussions, webinars and podcast interviews.

She knows how to inspire managers, inclusion professionals, HR professionals, L&D professionals and decision makers who want to do better when it comes to strengthening inclusion & employee sustainability.

Warning: it is important to share that Vivian Acquah CDE® may sometimes talk about food during a presentation or a lecture, a few times during this talk. Please have your (healthy) snacks ready. Vivian Acquah cannot be held responsible for any (unhealthy) cravings.

Inclusion Training/ Workshop

Psychological Safety in Teams

What is Psychological Safety?

Psychological safety means team members feel secure to take risks without fearing punishment or embarrassment. They can share ideas, ask questions, and admit mistakes freely. This creates trust and openness. In such teams, people contribute authentically, leading to better collaboration and innovation. Leaders foster it by showing vulnerability and respecting all views. It’s key for high-performing teams.

Elevate your team’s performance with the Psychological Safety for Teams training!

 

 

 

 

Why Psychological Safety Important for Teams?

Psychological safety boosts team performance and wellbeing. People share ideas openly, report errors early, and innovate more. Without it, stress rises, engagement falls, and turnover increases. Employees self-censor, stifling creativity. It improves decisions by valuing diverse input. Teams with it adapt faster and retain talent. It’s vital for inclusive, successful workplaces.

Elevate your team’s performance with the Psychological Safety for Teams training!

 

 

 

 

 

How Can Managers Build Psychological Safety?

Managers build it by being open about their mistakes, listening actively, and responding positively to feedback. Invite input explicitly and protect against blame. Ensure confidentiality and value diverse opinions. Model inclusivity and follow through on promises. These actions signal safety, encouraging risk-taking and trust. Consistency over time strengthens team bonds.

Elevate your team’s performance with the Psychological Safety for Teams training!

 

 

 

 

 

What Happens When Psychological Safety is Missing?

Without psychological safety, teams suffer. Employees hide mistakes, withhold ideas, and disengage. Burnout and turnover rise. Collaboration weakens as self-protection dominates. Innovation stalls, and unresolved conflicts build. Toxic cultures emerge with gossip instead of dialogue. Performance drops, harming the organisation overall.

Elevate your team’s performance with the Psychological Safety for Teams training!

 

 

 

 

 

Can Psychological Safety Exist Alongside Accountability?

Yes, they work together well. Psychological safety allows admitting mistakes without fear, while accountability ensures responsibility for actions. Leaders address failures constructively as learning chances. Clear standards and support create ownership. Balanced teams outperform others by encouraging effort and growth.

Elevate your team’s performance with the Psychological Safety for Teams training!

 

 

 

 

 

How Do You Measure Psychological Safety?

Measure it via surveys asking if people feel safe sharing ideas, admitting errors, or seeking help. Track meeting participation and feedback openness. Use engagement scores, turnover data, and interviews. Regular checks identify issues and gauge progress from interventions.

Elevate your team’s performance with the Psychological Safety for Teams training!

 

 

 

 

 

What Specific Behaviours Threaten Psychological Safety?

Threats include public criticism, idea dismissal, blaming messengers, sarcasm, and breaches of trust. Micromanagement, favouritism, and inconsistency signal danger. These make people withdraw, fearing humiliation. Teams must spot and stop them to maintain safety.

Elevate your team’s performance with the Psychological Safety for Teams training!

 

 

 

 

 

How Long Does Building Psychological Safety Take?

It takes 3-6 months for initial gains, 12-18 months for deep trust. Depends on culture, leadership, and consistency. Small daily actions matter more than big events. It’s ongoing maintenance, not a one-off fix. Patience yields lasting results.

Elevate your team’s performance with the Psychological Safety for Teams training!

 

 

 

 

 

Empowering Leadership with Cultural Intelligence

Empowering Leadership with Cultural Intelligence

Amplify Empathie met Virtual Reality BNR Radio Kennisplatform Inclusief Samenleven Effectieve antidiscriminatie-interventie Vivian Acquah Anita Abaisa

Empowering Leadership with Cultural Intelligence

In today’s globalized and diverse workplace, effective leadership goes beyond managing tasks; it’s about understanding and leveraging the unique perspectives, values, and experiences that each team member brings to the table.

Empowering Team Leaders with Cultural Intelligence is a dynamic and interactive workshop designed to equip leaders with the skills and strategies needed to navigate cultural differences and foster inclusive, high-performing teams.

This workshop introduces the Cultural Intelligence (CQ®) model, a research-based framework that helps leaders work effectively across cultural boundaries;whether those differences are multinational, generational, ethnic, or organizational. Participants will explore the challenges and opportunities that come with leading diverse teams and learn how to reframe diversity as a source of synergy and innovation. Through real-world examples, self-reflection activities, and group discussions, leaders will gain practical tools to create an inclusive team culture that drives collaboration, trust, and performance.

The session goes beyond simply identifying cultural challenges. It emphasizes actionable strategies for applying the CQ model to real-life leadership scenarios, such as facilitating psychological safety, encouraging perspective-taking, and promoting intellectual honesty. Leaders will leave the workshop with a concrete action plan to enhance their cultural intelligence and lead their teams with greater confidence and effectiveness.

Whether you’re managing a multinational team, navigating generational differences, or striving to create a more inclusive workplace, this workshop will empower you to lead with Cultural Intelligence and transform your team dynamics.

 

Comprehensive Assessment Suite

  • CQ Pro Assessment & Feedback Report: Each participant receives an individual report measuring their skills in four distinct areas of cultural intelligence. This serves as a personal benchmark for growth.  View Sample Report
  • Individual Behavioral Preferences Report: Detailed feedback on personal work styles and preferences.  View Sample Report

 

Learning objectives

  1. Understand the CQ® Model: Learn the four key capabilities of Cultural Intelligence and how they apply to effective team leadership.
  2. Navigate Cultural Differences: Build skills to identify and leverage cultural differences to enhance team synergy and performance.
  3. Foster Psychological Safety: Develop strategies to create a safe and inclusive environment where team members feel valued and heard.
  4. Encourage Perspective-Taking: Learn techniques to understand and appreciate diverse viewpoints, driving better decision-making and collaboration.
  5. Reduce Bias in Hiring and Leadership: Use CQ skills and structured approaches to minimize bias in recruitment and team management.
  6. Create a CQ Development Plan: Develop a personalized roadmap to continue building your Cultural Intelligence and leadership effectiveness.

Format
Empowering Team Leaders with Cultural Intelligence is an interactive session of 4 hours, delivered virtually or in person, with time built in for peer-to-peer interaction with the audience and Q&A.

 

 

 

Interested in having Vivian Acquah CDE® speak at your
next event or hire her for workshops?

Vivian is a great speaker who knows how to inspire an audience and convey a powerful message in a safe environment.

Vivian is available for virtual keynotes, events, summits, workshops, roundtable discussions, webinars and podcast interviews.

She knows how to inspire managers, inclusion professionals, HR professionals, L&D professionals and decision makers who want to do better when it comes to strengthening inclusion & employee sustainability.

Warning: it is important to share that Vivian Acquah CDE® may sometimes talk about food during a presentation or a lecture, a few times during this talk. Please have your (healthy) snacks ready. Vivian Acquah cannot be held responsible for any (unhealthy) cravings.

Inclusion Training/ Workshop

What is Empowering Leadership with Cultural Intelligence?

What is Empowering Leadership with Cultural Intelligence?

Empowering Leadership involves giving team members autonomy, resources, and support to make decisions and take initiative. When combined with Cultural Intelligence (CQ), leaders adapt this approach to diverse cultural contexts, recognizing that empowerment looks different across cultures; like more guidance for high-power-distance teams versus independence for egalitarian ones. This creates inclusive, high-performing multicultural teams

Elevate your team’s performance with the CQ for teams training!

 

 

 

Why combine empowering leadership with CQ?

Cultural differences affect how people respond to empowerment. Some cultures value directive guidance, others prefer autonomy. CQ-equipped leaders read these cues, adjust their style, and build trust across backgrounds. This prevents misunderstandings, boosts engagement, and leverages diversity for innovation, making teams more resilient and productive in global settings.

Elevate your team’s performance with the CQ for teams training!

 

 

What are the four CQ dimensions leaders should use?

Leaders apply CQ Drive (motivation for cross-cultural work), CQ Knowledge (understanding cultural norms), CQ Strategy (planning and adapting in real-time), and CQ Action (flexible behaviors). These help tailor empowerment, offering coaching to indirect communicators or space for debate in consensus cultures, ensuring every team member thrives. 

Elevate your team’s performance with the CQ for teams training!

 

 

 

 

 

How does CQ improve psychological safety in empowered teams?

CQ helps leaders create safe spaces by validating diverse viewpoints and addressing cultural fears of failure or conflict. Empowering leaders with high CQ encourages open dialogue, models vulnerability, and adapts feedback styles, fostering trust so that team members from any culture feel safe to innovate and take risks. 

Elevate your team’s performance with the CQ for teams training!

 

 

 

 

 

 

What are examples of culturally intelligent empowering actions?

A leader might delegate fully to low-hierarchy cultures but provide structured check-ins for high-hierarchy ones, rotate meeting facilitation to amplify quiet voices, or celebrate collective wins in group-oriented teams. These actions show respect for differences while promoting growth and shared ownership. 

Elevate your team’s performance with the CQ for teams training!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How can leaders develop CQ for empowering leadership?

Start with CQ assessments, seek feedback from diverse team members, study cultural dimensions like individualism vs. collectivism, and practice adaptive delegation.

Attend CQ training, reflect on past interactions, and build diverse networks. Consistent effort turns cultural awareness into empowering leadership skills. 

Elevate your team’s performance with the CQ for teams training!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What challenges arise without CQ in empowering leadership?

Leaders may unintentionally disempower members by imposing one-size-fits-all autonomy, causing confusion in directive-preferring cultures or micromanaging in independent ones.

This situation leads to low morale, resistance, and turnover. CQ prevents these pitfalls by customizing empowerment to cultural realities.

Elevate your team’s performance with the CQ for teams training!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What results can teams expect from this leadership style?

Teams gain higher engagement, creativity, and performance as members feel valued and capable. Reduced cultural friction improves collaboration, speeds decisions, and enhances retention. Leaders foster innovation hubs where diverse ideas converge, driving business success in multicultural environments. 

Elevate your team’s performance with the CQ for teams training!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Psychological Safety Training for Teams

Cultural Intelligence for Teams

Amplify Empathie met Virtual Reality BNR Radio Kennisplatform Inclusief Samenleven Effectieve antidiscriminatie-interventie Vivian Acquah Anita Abaisa

 Description

In today’s interconnected world, cultural differences, whether multinational, generational, ethnic, or organizational, can significantly impact team dynamics, communication, and overall effectiveness. How can teams turn these differences into strengths rather than barriers? The answer lies in Cultural Intelligence (CQ), a proven framework for navigating and leveraging cultural diversity.

This interactive workshop introduces the CQ® model, a research-based approach to understanding and improving cultural intelligence. You’ll gain practical strategies to optimize collaboration across cultural boundaries, enhance team processes, and achieve better outcomes. Through engaging discussions, real-world application exercises, and self-reflection activities, you’ll learn how to identify and address key cultural differences while fostering inclusion and synergy within your team.

The workshop is designed to provide actionable insights and tools that you can immediately apply in your professional environment. You’ll explore how cultural intelligence can help you adapt to diverse settings, build stronger relationships, and create a more inclusive and effective team culture. By the end of the session, you’ll leave with a personalized CQ development plan and the confidence to lead or contribute to culturally diverse teams with greater success.

Whether you’re working in a multinational organization, managing a generationally diverse team, or navigating cultural differences in any context, this workshop will equip you with the skills and knowledge to thrive. Join us to unlock the power of cultural intelligence and transform the way your team collaborates!

Comprehensive Assessment Suite

  • CQ Pro Assessment & Feedback Report: Each participant receives an individual report measuring their skills in four distinct areas of cultural intelligence. This serves as a personal benchmark for growth.  View Sample Report
  • Individual Behavioral Preferences Report: Detailed feedback on personal work styles and preferences.  View Sample Report
  • CQ Group Feedback Report: A collective view comparing everyone’s scores, highlighting the team’s overall strengths and gaps.  View Sample Report
  • Behavioral Preferences Team Profile: A visual map comparing all team members on one report, making it easy to spot potential friction points and synergies.  View Sample Report

 

Learning objectives

  1. Understand the impact of cultural differences on team dynamics and collaboration.
  2. Learn the four key capabilities of the CQ® model and how to apply them in diverse settings.
  3. Develop strategies to optimize team processes and outcomes using cultural intelligence.
  4. Increase awareness of your own cultural preferences and how they influence interactions.
  5. Create a personal CQ development plan to enhance your effectiveness in diverse teams.

Format
The Cultural Intelligence for Teams Training is an interactive session of 4 hours, delivered virtual or in person, with time built in for peer-to-peer interaction with the audience and Q&A.

 

Interested in having Vivian Acquah CDE® speak at your
next event or hire her for workshops?

Vivian is a great speaker who knows how to inspire an audience and convey a powerful message in a safe environment.

Vivian is available for virtual keynotes, events, summits, workshops, roundtable discussions, webinars and podcast interviews.

She knows how to inspire managers, inclusion professionals, HR professionals, L&D professionals and decision makers who want to do better when it comes to strengthening inclusion & employee sustainability.

Warning: it is important to share that Vivian Acquah CDE® may sometimes talk about food during a presentation or a lecture, a few times during this talk. Please have your (healthy) snacks ready. Vivian Acquah cannot be held responsible for any (unhealthy) cravings.

Inclusion Training/ Workshop

What is cultural intelligence (CQ) for teams?

What is cultural intelligence (CQ) for teams?

Cultural intelligence for teams is the team’s ability to recognize, understand, and adapt to cultural differences among members.

It helps diverse teams collaborate effectively, communicate better, and achieve stronger results by turning cultural diversity into a strength rather than a challenge.

Elevate your team’s performance with the CQ for teams training!

 

 

How does CQ differ from diversity training?

Diversity training focuses on awareness of differences and avoiding bias. CQ goes further by building practical skills to adapt behavior, make decisions, and solve problems across cultures. It’s measurable, learnable, and directly improves team performance.

Elevate your team’s performance with the CQ for teams training!

 

What are the four main parts of CQ?

  • Drive: Motivation to engage with other cultures.
  • Knowledge: Understanding cultural norms and values.
  • Strategy: Planning and adjusting in real-time.
  • Action: Changing behavior to fit the situation.

Elevate your team’s performance with the CQ for teams training!

 

 

 

 

Why do teams need cultural intelligence?

Modern teams are often global or multicultural. CQ reduces misunderstandings, builds trust, boosts innovation, and improves productivity. Without it, cultural clashes can cause conflict, poor decisions, and low morale. 

Elevate your team’s performance with the CQ for teams training!

 

 

 

 

 

How can a team measure its CQ?

Use validated CQ assessments for individuals, then aggregate team scores. Track team performance metrics like collaboration surveys, project success rates, and feedback on cross-cultural interactions.

Elevate your team’s performance with the CQ for teams training!

 

 

 

 

 

 

What challenges do low-CQ teams face?

Miscommunication, stereotypes, the exclusion of quieter members, delayed decisions, and unresolved conflicts are common issues in (virtual) teams.

Elevate your team’s performance with the CQ for teams training!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What are simple ways to build CQ in a team?

Hold regular “culture share” sessions, practice active listening, learn basic norms of teammates’ backgrounds, role-play scenarios, and celebrate cultural wins. Start small with daily check-ins on communication styles.

Elevate your team’s performance with the CQ for teams training!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Can any team improve its CQ?

Yes! CQ is a skill, not a fixed trait. With training, practice, and leadership support, all teams can develop it. Progress shows in better teamwork within weeks to months. 

Elevate your team’s performance with the CQ for teams training!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inclusive Hiring

Inclusive Hiring

Inclusive Hiring

A cartoon woman sits in front of a blue wall with chairs and a yellow light.

Building a Diverse and Equitable Recruitment Process

The inclusive hiring training is designed to raise awareness about inclusive recruiting practices, tackle challenges like unconscious bias and inclusive language, and provide participants with actionable strategies to create a more diverse and equitable hiring process.

Led by certified inclusion strategist Vivian Acquah, CDE®, this interactive session combines practical insights with real-world examples to help participants rethink and refine their approach to hiring. By the end of the training, attendees will be equipped with the tools and knowledge to foster a more inclusive recruitment process that attracts and retains diverse talent.

Key Topics Covered:

  • The Importance of Inclusive Recruiting
  • Common Barriers to Inclusive Hiring
  • Practical Strategies for Inclusive Hiring
  • The Power of Transparency
  • Q&A Session 

This training can also be paired with a Design Thinking Workshop or Inclusive Workshop Facilitation for a more comprehensive approach to fostering inclusion within your organisation.

Description

Language is a powerful tool—it shapes how we see the world, how we interact with others, and how others experience it. The words we choose can either build bridges or create barriers. This inclusive language training dives deep into the impact of language, showing how even small adjustments in words and phrasing can help cultivate a more inclusive, supportive, and respectful workplace culture.

Led by certified inclusion strategist Vivian Acquah CDE®, this interactive session provides practical insights and real-world examples to help participants rethink and refine their communication practices. Through engaging discussions and exercises, attendees will learn how to foster equity, respect, and collaboration through thoughtful language.

Whether you’re an individual contributor, team manager, or senior leader within your organisation, this training equips you with actionable strategies to create meaningful, lasting positive change for teams and colleagues alike.

 

Learning Objectives

  • Understand the importance of inclusive recruiting and its impact on diversity and equity.
  • Identify and address common barriers to inclusive hiring, such as unconscious bias and exclusive language.
  • Learn practical strategies to create a more diverse and equitable recruitment process.
  • Gain actionable insights to refine job descriptions, interview processes, and candidate evaluations.
  • Develop awareness of how inclusive hiring contributes to a more equitable workplace culture.
  • Engage in meaningful discussions and Q&A to address specific challenges and scenarios.

Programme Format
The Inclusive Hiring training is available in various flexible formats to suit diverse organisational needs. It can be delivered as a concise 25-minute TED-style talk, an engaging 45-90 minute keynote (virtual or in-person), or a more in-depth half- or full-day workshop. Each format incorporates interactive elements, including peer-to-peer discussions and Q&A sessions, to ensure a highly engaging and impactful learning experience.

Hire Vivian Acquah CDE® to speak at your next event
or hire her for workshops!

Vivian is a great speaker who knows how to inspire an audience and convey a powerful message in a safe environment.

Vivian is available for virtual keynotes, events, summits, workshops, roundtable discussions, webinars and podcast interviews.

She knows how to inspire managers, inclusion professionals, HR professionals, L&D professionals and decision makers who want to do better when it comes to strengthening inclusion & employee sustainability.

Warning: it is important to share that Vivian Acquah CDE® may sometimes talk about food during a presentation or a lecture, a few times during this talk. Please have your (healthy) snacks ready. Vivian Acquah cannot be held responsible for any (unhealthy) cravings.

Inclusion Training/ Workshops

FAQ Inclusive Hiring

What is inclusive hiring, and why is it important?

Inclusive hiring ensures fair and unbiased recruitment, creating opportunities for diverse talent. It fosters innovation, equity, and a stronger workplace culture.

How does inclusive hiring contribute to diversity and equity in the workplace?

It brings diverse perspectives, reduces barriers, and ensures equal opportunities, leading to a more equitable and innovative work environment.

What are the key steps to start implementing inclusive hiring practices?

Audit job descriptions, train recruiters on bias, diversify sourcing channels, and standardise interview processes.

How can unconscious bias be reduced in the recruitment process?

Provide bias-awareness training, use blind resume reviews, and implement structured interviews.

What role does inclusive language play in job descriptions?

Inclusive language ensures job ads are welcoming to all candidates, avoiding terms that may unintentionally exclude certain groups.

How can organizations ensure they are reaching a diverse talent pool?

Partner with diverse organisations, expand sourcing channels, and use platforms that connect with under-represented groups.