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Program Benefits

Here are the benefits this program can deliver for your entire organization:

M.E.E.T. on Common Ground™ - Speaking Up for Respect in the Workplace

The desire to be treated with respect is something we all have in common, especially in the workplace. Without civility and productivity fueled by a personal commitment to mutual respect, no one is able to contribute their best work.

For Your Employees

Skills – your skills in communication, teamwork, conflict resolution, diversity and customer service will be enhanced
More confidence – you will be able to better handle sensitive issues without shame, blame or negative stereotyping
More productivity – you will have an easier time communicating with coworkers and customers and less down time due to conflict, tension or unresolved frustration
Sense of pride – that is what happens when you feel respected by your coworkers and your organization
Enhanced teamwork – collaborating with others is easier when you work in a respectful environment

For The Organization

An employee value proposition – all things being equal, we can more easily attract and retain a talented workforce if we actively support an environment in which employees feel valued and respected
Improved productivity – when people understand how to effectively deal with sensitive issues, their teamwork and customer service are enhanced
Increased professionalism – creating a respect-filled workplace promotes appropriate and professional behavior in the workplace
Problem prevention – when people understand how to recognize issues, think things through and then act in a respectful way, they should be able to resolve issues quickly, keep problems from escalating and save time and money

The Four-Step M.E.E.T. Model

M - Make time to discuss the situation

E - Explore differences

E - Encourage respect

T - Take responsibility

Unlike many programs that focus on high-level "strategic" theories concerning diversity and inclusion management, M.E.E.T. on Common Ground is a "ground-zero" tactical approach. The focus is on understanding and communication using a sound, easily-learned four-step process.

The program teaches your employees how to recognize and respond professionally and with respect in a variety of real-world situations:

"It's just an expression..." - how common expressions of speech can create friction.
"It's just a joke..." - how jokes can be "okay" within your own group, but offensive to others.
"How did we get stuck with these two?" - how assumptions based on age or appearance can impact the working environment.
"I didn't understand one word..." - how do people who share a language interact without making co-workers who don't know the language uncomfortable?
"I'll let that one slide..." - how casual statements can unintentionally reinforce negative stereotypes.
"You should see her 'qualifications'" - how assumptions reported as fact can damage reputations and productivity.

M.E.E.T. on Common Ground™ Facilitation Options

This Facilitator Guide provides step-by-step instructions for two agenda options plus a self-study option.

You can reinforce key points and customize the training to your organization by selecting from among several optional activities that give participants the opportunity to practice and apply what they are learning.

Suggestions for prework and optional activities can be found in the Facilitator Resources.

The following matrix will help you select the agenda option that is best for your training session.

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Session Type	Video	Discussion Opportunities	Self-Assessments	Key Concepts in Detail through Activities	Case Studies	Guided Application
Two-Hour Workshop: This agenda provides ample opportunity for exploration of key concepts. It is ideal for organizations wanting to provide thorough coverage of the material and plenty of time for discussion about how the M.E.E.T. model works.	⬤	⬤	⬤	⬤	◯	◯
Half-Day Workshop: This agenda expands on the two-hour workshop. Training can be customized by selecting optional activities that give participants the opportunity to discuss, practice and apply what they are learning. It is ideal for organizations that want to optimize the learning experience and provide guided help for application.	⬤	⬤	⬤	⬤	◯	⬤
Self-Study: Self-study materials are provided as an online resource and are ideal for individuals who missed a workshop or are new to a work group that has already participated in a workshop.	⬤	◯	⬤	⬤	◯	⬤