bernadette smith
speaker information

Full Keynote Descriptions

More Than Words: Inclusive Leadership Beyond the Buzz

In the rapidly evolving world of business, embracing diversity isn't just a buzzword – it's an essential strategy for success and innovation. But do your leaders tap into the expansive potential of diversity?

The common approach to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEI) often zeros in on talent acquisition and training. Yet, as pivotal as these strategies are, they only scratch the surface. Organizations that are built for the future do more than hold occasional training sessions. Success demands the seamless integration of equity and inclusion into the very fabric of the organization.

In this high-energy and entertaining 45 minute keynote, bestselling author and speaker Bernadette Smith introduces you to her PSA model – a proven formula for expanding the reach of your DEI initiatives, to help your organization become Inclusive 360. Organizations that are Inclusive 360 live their values not only with their employees but also with their customers and suppliers. Those are the organizations that reap the untapped rewards of diversity and inclusion. Bernadette will show you how.

Voices Carry: The ARC of Inclusive Leadership

In an increasingly polarized society, it can be hard to remember that true diversity encompasses every individual, regardless of their background or beliefs. However, the challenge arises when we unintentionally allow assumptions to dictate our interactions. These unchecked assumptions can create barriers to authentic connections, and negatively impact team cohesion, customer relationships, and even retention rates.

The essence of inclusive leadership lies in the ability to foster understanding and bridge gaps, transforming assumptions into insightful dialogues. Bernadette’s ARC Method® will help you do just that to create a culture of belonging within your organization.

Dubbed a “spark plug of insight”, Bernadette embodies a refreshing, funny, and non-judgmental perspective on inclusion and belonging. Under her guidance, attendees will learn to follow the ARC and acquire tangible tools for fostering dialogues that are not just meaningful, but transformative, laying the foundation for a workplace culture where everyone feels they belong.

Come As You Are: Build Authentic Connection with Increasingly Diverse Clients

In sales, first impressions count, but unchecked assumptions can derail client relationships. With an increasingly diverse client base, it's critical to learn how to sidestep unconscious biases and leverage kind curiosity to forge genuine connections.

Don't let assumptions jeopardize your sales goals—discover actionable strategies to enhance sales effectiveness and build rapport with increasingly diverse clients. Bernadette will equip your sales team with strategies to swiftly recover from unintentional offenses in sales interactions, and empower them to build genuine trust using the ARC Method®.

Elevate your sales game by embracing tools for authentic engagement that drive lasting client loyalty, ensuring your company stands out for its genuine commitment to client care.

Equality Institute Brief Overview

Equality Institute is a boutique diversity, equity, and inclusion firm whose mission is to help organizations fulfill the promise of diversity by embedding equity and inclusion into organizational systems and culture, enhancing outcomes for everyone. Our vision is for a world where every human feels safe to express their authentic selves. Equality Institute is a certified woman and LGBTQ+-owned business.