Pokorny Consulting

...where our consulting services result in respectful and productive working environments!

Workplace Diversity Training

We offer two video-based learning diversity programs produced by VisionPoint Productions, which are outlined below. Both programs use the M.E.E.T. model as a way of being respectful in the workplace.
The M.E.E.T. model is:
M - Make time to discuss
E - Explore the differences
E - Encourage respect
T - Take personal responsibility

In addition, we have partnered with employers to develop and facilitate unique and creative diversity learning experiences. As an example, in 2006, we partnered with Bankers Trust Company in Des Moines, Iowa, to develop and facilitate diversity training using the film CRASH with employee dialogue groups.

Please contact us about your ideas and desired outcomes for diversity training. We will work with you to design a learning experience specific to your work environment.

M.E.E.T. on Common Ground - Speaking Up for Respect in the Workplace (all employees)

This seminar teaches your employees how to recognize and respond to inappropriate or illegal situations professionally...and with respect.

  • "It's just an expression..." How common expressions of speech can create friction.
  • "It's just a joke.." How jokes can be "okay" within your own group, but offensive to others.
  • "She's old news. He's too green." How assumptions based on age or appearance can impact the working environment.
  • "I didn't understand one word..." How people who share a language can interact without making coworkers who don't know the language uncomfortable.
  • "I'll let that one slide..." How casual statements can unintentionally reinforce negative stereotypes.
  • "You should see her 'qualifications'..." How assumptions reported as fact can damage reputations and productivity.

This seminar can vary in length from one to four hours.

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We Need to M.E.E.T.: Managing for Respect in the Workplace (supervisors)

This seminar teaches supervisors how to recognize, respond to, and resolve day-to-day workplace situations while promoting a respectful and inclusive working environment. Supervisors are taught to ask three questions to analyze workplace situations:

  1. Is the behavior illegal?
  2. Is the behavior impermissible?
  3. Is the behavior inappropriate?

Supervisors analyze four situations using the three questions:

  • "It Was in The Paper . . ." How discussions of outside events at work can disrupt working relationships.
  • "Meet Kim Foo . . ." How playing off stereotypes, even when it is intended as "just a joke," can contribute to a disrespectful working environment.
  • "White Guys Need Not Apply . . ." How a misconception of an organization's efforts to be inclusive can lead to perceptions of discrimination and exclusion.
  • "Say Hello to Kelly . . ." How reactions to differences in sexual orientation can strain working relationships.

This seminar can vary in length from one to four hours.

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Resources

Looking for DVD's for diversity training? We are a representative for VisionPoint Productions that produce award-winning DVDs on diversity and respect in the workplace. Please contact us for this information to arrange for your preview online of their products.

Diversity Awareness Profile is a self-assessment tool that has helped millions of individuals in organizations improve working relationships among diverse co-workers and customers by increasing the awareness of their behavior toward people and how it affects them and how individual's behavior affects others.

Cultural Diversity Calendar features a range of cultural and religious days and festivals celebrated around the world.

Diversity Assessments. Online assessments the cover an array of diversity-themed subjects: Tests for Hidden Biases, Disability Awareness, Global Culture, Diversity Change Agent, and Diversity Checklist Quiz.