Summer is finally here! At long last, it’s time for beach days, cookouts, refreshing treats, and much-needed time with loved ones. But don’t get too comfortable—summer is also a critical time for planning a sustainable culture of belonging at your organization.
I know, I know. This isn’t what you want to hear today. You’ve been counting down to summer vacation, and if your organization has overcome major hurdles this year, you deserve a recharge. So, let’s lighten the load and make this fun!
In the next month, try the following outreach methods to ensure the best collaborations and commitments for a healthy work culture where everyone can thrive (and have fun in the process):
1. Invite your colleague(s) to coffee/lunch.
Whose work do you admire within or outside of your organization? Reach out to let them know that you’re impressed and want to brainstorm collaborations for the next year. And more importantly, enjoy some treats of your choice as you talk it over. Ice cream, anyone?
2. Dream big, dream practically.
I won’t get into the weeds of SMART planning here, but make sure that your goals for culture and belonging are a nice combination of aspirational and practical. In talking your ideas through with trusted colleagues, troubleshoot and prioritize how and when to bring your goals to light. Anchor your planning with key dates and times for events, outreach, and initiatives.
3. Forecast the budget.
This work isn’t cheap. Whether you want to launch a book club on high-performing teams at work or partner with a leading community organization that provides resources to the people who need it the most, it’s going to cost. Be honest about the budget, so you can make your best pitch to leadership.
4. Schedule follow-up meetings.
It’s okay if your goals aren’t clearly defined in the first meeting—that’s what follow-ups are for! During subsequent meetings, start to narrow down what is most feasible given the goals and budget you have outlined thus far. And (fingers crossed) after leadership approves your pitches, keep meeting with your accomplices to stay accountable to making sure you deliver.
As I’ve mentioned, planning can and should be fun. With trusted colleagues and summer treats, you can bring your goals to life while still prioritizing wellness, collaboration, and performance. Good luck!
About the author
Zahida Sherman is the Founder and CEO of Z Crown Consulting, the inaugural Director of Culture & Belonging at the Southern California Institute of Architecture, and a Lecturer in Antiracism at the David Geffen School of Drama at Yale University. She holds a master’s in African history from Northwestern University, and a bachelor’s from Ithaca College, with majors in Africana Studies and anthropology. Zahida has written about culture and wellness in Globe & Mail, Bustle, Healthline, and Well and Good, among others. You can follow her on LinkedIn and Instagram.
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