Dima Ghawi
Bio
Dima is an award-winning author and a three-time TEDx Speaker. Through keynote speeches, workshops, training programs, and executive coaching, she has honed a keen expertise in developing leaders to meet the demands of the global workforce.
Stories (71/0)
Challenging Conformity in Meetings
When it comes to conformity bias, it is easy to observe it in meetings. After all, the idea of sharing a different opinion or—dare I say it—challenging individuals with authority may intimidate even the most fearless! How can we manage this bias and stand against the status quo? Fortunately, I propose there is a simple solution to addressing this problem of conformity: start by asking five questions.
By Dima Ghawi10 months ago in Journal
Tips for Managing Up
Small and large scale businesses focus on leadership development--spending more than 14 billion dollars a year on training and coaching their management team. However, these resources are often devoted to training for managing down. We don’t often discuss managing up and the importance of having influence over our managers. A recent McKinsey study found that managing up was “50% more important than managing subordinates for business success and well over twice as important for career success” (McKinsey). In this blog, we’re going to share with you five tips to more effectively manage up and influence your manager.
By Dima Ghawi11 months ago in Journal
How to Manage Difficult Managers
We have all been faced with the challenge of working under difficult leadership. Whether managers seem undertrained, misinformed, or overstressed, there is a method we can employ to resolve tensions and create a better work environment. A recent McKinsey study found that managing your manager can lead to higher rates of professional success for both individuals and the business on a large scale, showcasing the importance of this workplace tactic. Below are three scenarios revolving around different managers that illustrates tactics to diffuse tensions, and highlight the power of taking initiative and managing up in the workplace.
By Dima Ghawi11 months ago in Journal
Increasing Diversity and Inclusion with Individual Actions
As the world is changing, businesses are evolving to incorporate diversity, equity, and inclusion into their core statements and missions. As individuals, we can also take actionable steps towards increasing inclusion within our daily lives. If companies are dragging their feet in committing to positive reform, do not be afraid to harness your power to create change. This blog will share impactful tips for creating a safe space for our minority coworkers, friends, and family.
By Dima Ghawi11 months ago in Pride
The Strength of Inclusion
Creating a culture of inclusion is integral to increasing employee engagement, teamwork, and innovation; however, the true advantages of diversity shine through in our team members. By establishing a healthy and safe environment, we can welcome diverse individuals and encourage them to unlock their potential. Whenever I think about this topic, I think about my friend Mike and his journey to acceptance.
By Dima Ghawi11 months ago in Pride
Handling Resistance to DEI Strategies
Even the most inclusive organizations face internal resistance to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Recently, one of the organizations I look up to the most reached out to me for guidance with their DEI strategy. While their immersive initiatives appeared flawless to me, the company was concerned about recent DEI survey results. Some of their team members were indicating frustration with the diversity and inclusion practices, citing feelings of reverse discrimination and overall resistance to ongoing efforts. These sentiments sometimes infiltrate workplaces with a new, progressive DEI strategy. If your business is experiencing a similar struggle, here are 7 tips for you to consider:
By Dima Ghawi11 months ago in Journal
Four Components of a Productive DEI Council
An excellent way to integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) into our organizations is through a DEI Council. This initiative provides companies with an enthusiastic group of employees dedicated to evaluating current diversity metrics, establishing new programs, and tracking the long-term progress of creating a culture of inclusion. However, without the proper support and structure, a DEI Council may be rendered ineffective or lose steam.
By Dima Ghawi11 months ago in Journal
Frequent DEI Barriers from Business Leaders
Pitching a new diversity, equity, and inclusion strategy to business leaders can be stressful. In addition to presenting the countless benefits of DEI, we must also be prepared to overcome the executives’ fears and their unconscious biases. Here are four of the most common pieces of resistance I face from executives and advice for addressing them.
By Dima Ghawi12 months ago in Journal
How Does Unconscious Bias Influence Dating Habits?
It was a busy weekday when my phone rang. The number flashed across the screen, and I immediately smiled and answered – it was my matchmaker! After moving to Louisiana, I had taken some time to settle into the area, and now I was ready to date. I reached out to a matchmaker, and today, I’d learn about a potential new partner.
By Dima Ghawi12 months ago in Humans
Can We Learn From Other Generations?
Today’s workplace is unique, as it is rich not only with racial, gender, and ethnic diversity but also because it consists mainly of four different generations: Baby Boomers (late 50s to late 70s), Generation X (early 40s to mid-50s), Millennials (late 20s to early 40s), and Gen Z (elementary age to mid-20s). When most of us think of “diversity,” generational diversity may not be our go-to example, but the range of ideas and experience that comes with each age group is as instrumental to creating a productive workplace as any other element of diversity. There are numerous areas in which younger and senior generations can learn from one another, so today we will explore a few of these infinite learning possibilities!
By Dima Ghawi12 months ago in Journal
Four Tips for Creating a DEI Council Charter
When founding a DEI Council, one of the most integral elements to discuss is the creation of a charter. This document will help guide the group’s meetings, decisions, and initiatives from its conception throughout its future work. A successful DEI Charter interweaves several elements, including a strong mission statement, related goals, leadership assignments, and membership requirements. Through this article, I share the benefits of designing and implementing a charter and breakdown the central tenets of this initiative.
By Dima Ghawi12 months ago in Journal
Three Steps Companies Can Take to Start Building DEI Strategy
The focus on diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) within organizations has shifted from being “nice to have” to becoming a “competitive advantage.” While many teams are moving in the right direction by increasing their focus in this area, the majority are rushing to be part of this wave without a clear direction.
By Dima Ghawi12 months ago in Journal