The Power of Words: A Reflection

Thoughts on belonging

If you haven’t seen the meme, a famous Dwight from “The Office” says, “Corporate Speak. How to Speak Without Saying Anything.” Many of us working in the corporate setting can relate.

One day, you are reporting on the successes and opportunities of your team. The next, you begin hearing “move the needle” or “gatekeepers.” Peer pressure ignites you to utilize these colloquialisms and phrasal verbs in your lexicon. Despite studying a language, you must learn an entirely new one. I’ll call it “Corporatese.”

We need to take moments to pause before communicating, not just to our loved ones but to our coworkers, supervisors, peers, and business audiences. You can sign IABC Greater Cincinnati's Declaration for Diverse and Inclusive Impact as a promise to move forward.

Self-awareness trickles into communication. Build trust instead of creating confusion. When your audience feels included and appreciated, the actual collaboration begins. This seminar, How to Deliver More Inclusive Communication by Uncovering Unconscious Code with presenter Alise Isbell of Write Wise Communications, has prompted me to self-reflect as a leader and how I can “gain traction” with business partners who may have unheard voices.

I implore you, not only as a communications professional but as a mother who wants her child to grow up in a world where belonging is possible, to sign the declaration, even if you weren't able to attend this resourceful session.