February 2009 Newsletter
Audrey Nelson Ph.D. Inc

Smart Talk
Where in the world is Audrey

How Everyday Microinequities Can Sabotage the Workplace

Last week I had dinner with a client, Celia. I have worked for Celia’s organization, a financial institution, for almost ten years. She revealed that she is currently on a national team for her organization and is the only female among twelve members. After an all day meeting and as they were adjourning, her male coworker turned to the men in the group and said, “Guys, where should we go to dinner?” They decided and left as a group without Celia.
This is a perfect illustration of the daily microinequities that occur across the nation and in all industries and companies.  Microinequities are small daily acts of exclusion, put downs and discrimination. Usually they are directed at women and minority groups. Other common examples are:

  • Directing questions only to white males in the group
  • Excluding minority groups from team memberships
  • Interrupting
  • Being left out of the information loop
  • Extending invitations to social events to select coworkers

Take notice. Become aware of these micro structures that support a macro structure of exclusion and discrimination. Microinequities may seem harmless, but in reality, they are a reflection of your workplace culture.
Articles
denver
“Relationship Rescue"
January, 2009
Click to view article

Feb 5th
City of Fort Collins
Your Generation or Mine?
Lincoln Center
417 West Magnolia Street
Ft Collins, CO
9-11 am

Feb 26
Western Regional 4H Leaders Forum
Lunch Keynote Noon
Denver Downtown Marriott

ZONTA FOOTHILLS
Saturday, March 14, 2009
11:00 am to 2:00 pm
Omni Interlocken Resort, Broomfield

Audrey will be a featured author.
The Authors’ Luncheon is a literary event that brings together local authors who will share their craft and insights about their creative process. Proceeds from the event benefit local and international service agencies that advance the status of women. Zonta Foothills Foundation supports efforts to prevent violence against women, and improve the economic opportunities, education and health of women in Colorado and around the world. Jean Dubofsky will serve as the Honorary Chair. Jean Dubofsky made Colorado history as the first and youngest woman appointed to the Colorado Supreme Court. Jean earned her A.B. from Stanford University and her LL.B from Harvard Law School.

Breaking News!
Audrey just signed a contract for her second book with Alpha Books, division of Prentice Hall. On bookstore shelves September 2009.
Code Switching:
How to Talk so Men will Listen
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What People are saying about Audrey

United States Forest Service
Missoula, Montana
January 2009
Comments from Audrey’s program: Your Generation or Mine?

  • Excellent.  I could listen to you all day.
  • Good. Like the stories. They really help.
  • Fascinating but to short.
  • Thought provoking.
  • Very interesting. The content has triggered many questions about my own perceptions (or misperceptions) of my coworkers
"Audrey's Top 4 CD Communication Hits"