Recently, I took an online training for Code of Conducts with Otter Tech.  Short version, highly recommend taking this course.  Even if you do not enforce code of conducts, the information was powerful for learning period.  Personally, I would say this would be beneficial for any manager.

Long Version:

I learned so much that writing this seems overwhelming.  Let’s start with the top highlights.

  • First, I want to highlight that I challenged and asked questions galore.  There were multiple times that I thought “but wait” or “what about”…and I was able to get them all out.  The instructor was patient and knowledgeable.  The answers were extremely helpful in moving me towards the next level in helping create diverse and inclusive environments.
  • Second, content and time for practice with follow up debrief.  I appreciated that there were content and tips delivered with breakout zoom rooms for us to partner and practice in various role play situations.  The instructions were clear, the technology worked and the exercise/debriefs really uncovered our questions.
  • Next, I had a long list of things to do (actions to take, mistakes to own, etc) from this training.  The instructor wasn’t asking for this to happen, but it was impossible not to create that list.  For example, creation of a transparency report of the code of conduct incidents.Transparency reports will include:
    • A description of how the Code of Conduct was promoted to community members
    • A summary of the total number and types of incidents that have occurred since the last transparency report
    • A summary of the resolutions to those incidents, including unresolved incidents
    • A generalized description of each incident, and how the incident was resolved
  • The tips were fantastic.
    • One that really stood out to me was for the scenario of “what if they don’t agree they did that?”.  The primary focus is to stop the behavior.  Focus on getting agreement that this behavior would not unacceptable and they would agree that it shouldn’t happen.  If they agree to this, the behavior hopefully would not occur again as that is what matters. The primary goal is not punishment but creating a safe space.
    • Another area that was of deep concern for me was for the scenario of “reverse…”.  The tip was to change the language to “we explicitly invite…” to promote programs for minorities.
    • Note:  I’m reviewing all my notes.  Seriously, so many tips but I don’t want to offer all of the content here.
  • Lastly, prompt follow up after the course with the slides, example reports, additional information, etc.

My only comment/request for improvement was this was a 4 hour online call.  The breaks were very limited and short.  By hour 3, I found myself struggling with comfort to stay focused.

At $350, this is simply a no brainer training.

What other training would you recommend?

Tricia Broderick

Tricia Broderick

Tricia Broderick is a leadership and organizational advisor. Her transformational leadership at all levels of an organization, ignites growth of leaders and high performing teams to deliver quality outcomes. Tricia has more than twenty years of experience in the software development industry. She is a highly-rated trainer, coach, facilitator and motivational keynote speaker. Beyond her extensive knowledge and skills, her biggest offering is inspiring people to believe anything is possible.

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