Kirk Gimenez’s Post

I loved hosting Queensway's International Women's Day panel discussion yesterday with panellists Vanessa Hall, Nick Pilbeam and Lucy Soper MCIPD as we talked about empathetic leadership and inspiring inclusion. It's invigorating to be part of a company's conversation about how to make the workplace a more supportive place to be. Imagine if every organisation took the time to inspire people to be more empathetic in their every day? Apart from the obvious and most important factor that staff feel seen and heard and are therefore, happier, it's also proven that it improves retention and results. Key takeaways: Be yourself Ask for feedback - and be prepared to hear it Remember that empathy and compassion is your superpower I really enjoy doing panel moderation so if you're looking for someone to ask the questions at your next event, do get in touch! #empathy #leadership #paneldiscussion #corporatewellness

***Recommendations for summer reading*** Sometimes clients will ask me for additional resources/recommendations to support their inclusive leadership journeys. I keep a document with links to educators and books to share with them. Earlier this week, I shared some must reads with my email list and think they're worth sharing here, too. Please note this isn't an exhaustive list, these are in no particular order, and they're all worth reading. 1. Brave Leadership is a Choice: An Inclusive Guide to Creating Belonging by yours truly 2. Do Better by Rachel Ricketts 3. all about love by bell hooks 4. belonging: a culture of place by bell hooks 5. Rest is Resistance by Tricia Hersey 6. Learn Lead Lift: How to Think, Act and Inspire Your Way to Greatness by Wendy Ryan 7. The Humanity Archive: Recovering the Soul of Black History from a Whitewashed American Myth by Jermaine Fowler 8. Atlas of the Heart: Mapping Meaningful Connection and the Language of Human Experience by Brene Brown 9. White Supremacy is All Around by Dr. Akilah Cadet 10. Hood Feminism by Mikki Kendall 11. Not All Boys Are Blue by George M. Johnson 12. My Grandmother's Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Pathway to Mending Our Hearts and Bodies by Resmaa Menakem 13. One Drop: Shifting the Lens on Race by Yaba Blay 14. Inclusive 360 by Bernadette Smith 15. You Are Your Best Thing by Tarana Burke and Brene Brown 16. White Rage: The Unspoken Truth of Our Racial Divide by Carol Anderson Want more inclusive leadership tips and resources? Sign-up to receive my free Inclusive Leadership Reminder Series here: https://lnkd.in/eP8YSy93 #LeadershipDevelopment #Diversity #Representation #Inclusion #InclusiveBranding #DEItraining #Antiracism #ImpactfulBrand #Branding #BrandConsulting #BrandStrategy #ImpactfulBrand #CoreValues #BrandPersonality #TargetAudience #BrandIdentity #BrandConsultant #BrandWithPurpose #CreativeConsultant #BrandPhotography #BrandPhotographer #Yogi #InclusiveBrand #Accessibility

🌍 April is Celebrate Diversity Month, reminding us as leaders of the immense value that diverse perspectives bring to our teams and organizations. Stephen R. Covey captured it best: "Strength lies in differences, not in similarities." This month, let's commit to fostering an inclusive leadership style that values and seeks out these differences. By doing so, we empower our teams, drive innovation, and create a more dynamic and effective workplace. 🚀 #LeadershipDiversity #CelebrateDiversity #InclusiveLeadership

🕊️ Reflecting on Leadership and Legacy: November 22, 1963 🕊️ Sixty-one years ago today, President John F. Kennedy's life and leadership were tragically cut short just 16 miles from our corporate office in Dallas. His assassination shook the nation, disrupting not just a presidency but the continuity of vital policies addressing civil rights, global peace, and innovation. Kennedy’s vision of progress reminds us that leadership is about inspiring hope, driving change, and building a legacy that transcends challenges. As leaders, whether in business or public service, we have a responsibility to carry forward that spirit of resilience and purpose. Leadership, whether in government or commerce, is about creating systems that endure and inspire trust. Let’s remember Kennedy’s legacy today by embracing leadership that fosters progress and unity. #Leadership #Legacy #Progress #DallasHistory #Transparency #BusinessLeadership

🚨 The "Diversity Blueprint: Reinventing Board Composition" workshop is approaching soon!      Join us in person on Thursday, 26th September 2024, 10:00am – 1:00pm for an exclusive workshop designed to transform how we approach board diversity within the housing sector.     Why should you attend?  Diverse boards aren’t just a nice-to-have—they are essential for richer decision-making, stronger representation, and more effective leadership. In today’s housing landscape, boards that lack diversity miss out on the critical perspectives necessary for innovation and inclusivity.    ✔ Gain insights from Lara Oyedele, a thought leader in board diversity and founder of Black on Board, as she unveils modern, practical approaches to fostering diverse and inclusive boards that challenge outdated norms and drive sustainable change.    ✔ Discover actionable strategies to broaden your board's perspectives, recruit inclusively, and cultivate a leadership team that aligns diversity with organisational success and cultural competence.    This is an exclusive opportunity for all Connex members to engage in meaningful conversations that focus on increasing diversity in the boardroom. A more diverse leadership is crucial for fostering innovation, driving equitable decision-making, and ensuring our sector reflects the communities we serve.     🔗 Secure your spot now and be part of this pivotal movement! https://lnkd.in/gv6wKjxX     #Leadership #Diversity #BoardComposition #InclusiveLeadership #Connex #HousingSector #ProfessionalDevelopment 

In the spirit of Black History Month, it's pivotal for us as leaders to introspect and acknowledge the significant impact we can have in dismantling systemic racism within our organizations and communities. Leadership extends beyond achieving business objectives; it encompasses fostering a culture where diversity is celebrated, and inclusivity is the norm. The failures of racism in leadership not only undermine the potential of talented individuals but also hinder the collective growth and innovation of our organizations. As leaders, we have the responsibility to challenge ingrained biases, educate ourselves and our teams, and advocate for policies that promote equity and inclusion at every level. Here's a tip: Lead by example. Show your commitment to diversity and inclusion through your actions, decisions, and the way you empower others. Something to try: Mentor or sponsor individuals from underrepresented groups within your professional network. I urge all leaders to reflect on their role in creating a more just and equitable world. How will you leverage your influence to make a difference? #LeadershipMatters #InclusionInAction #BlackHistoryMonth #BeTheChange #DiversityInLeadership

Amidst a burst of dynamic colors and bold lines, this artwork captures the essence of collective advancement and the power of diversity within the professional sphere. It celebrates the many faces of leadership and the strength that arises when unique perspectives come together. Let this serve as a visual anthem for inclusion, and may it inspire us to drive change and innovation through unity. #Leadership #DiversityAndInclusion #ProfessionalUnity #InspiringChange #DynamicLeadership

It's Juneteenth, a day to reflect on the importance of cultural competency in organizations. Are you part of a workplace that values and respects this holiday? Sharing a personal experience, I once encountered a situation where I was asked to consult (White) senior leadership on Black History Month decorations. The irony of seeking guidance from a senior marketing leader who was unaware highlighted the need for inclusive practices. How can we foster more inclusive practices in organizations where cultural competency is currently low? #Juneteenth #CulturalCompetency #DiversityandInclusion

CULTURE | LEADERSHIP Like it or not, EVERYONE at the company shapes and molds the company culture. Yes, it begins with leadership, the “Tone at the Top”, but every employee has the ability to influence the company culture positively and/or negatively. The key for the company is: 1) Hire the right people in the first place; 2) Train and develop them; and 3) Fire fast, when needed. The key for the job seeker is: 1) Due diligence in researching the company; 2) Asking the right questions; and 3) Observing interactions when touring the company. “You can’t buy good leadership and company culture doesn’t lie” quoting Terry Crisp (“Crispy”) color commentator alongside Pete Weber, long-time voice of the Nashville Predators. #culture #leadership #toneatthetop #wisdom #mrsgm

In celebration of Women’s History Month, we were honored to host the US Women’s Soccer icon, Brandi Chastain, for an inspiring chat at #CCI. Her words resonated deeply with our company’s culture, particularly regarding the essence of leadership transcending titles. Brandi shared a powerful story about her teammate, Carla Overbeck, during the 1999 Women’s World Cup. Despite a challenging moment, after Brandi scored an own goal, Carla's response exemplified true #leadership – she was supportive, compassionate, and understanding. During her talk, Brandi also emphasized that leadership is a collective responsibility. We all have a role to play in stepping up, being present, and making a positive impact, irrespective of our positions or titles. At #CCI, we're dedicated to fostering individual leadership. Our team members demonstrate this commitment every day through their dedication and passion. We've cultivated a culture where everyone feels empowered to step up and make a difference. Curious to learn more about what we stand for? Click here: https://lnkd.in/d_Ex5XdG We're excited to hear from you! Share your thoughts on leadership and join the conversation: What does leadership mean to you? #WomensHistoryMonth #LeadershipBeyondTitles #BrandiChastain #Teamwork #Empowerment #Inspiration #IndividualLeadership #CCI #CCIValues #JoinTheConversation