Priya Parker

There is a growing “belonging” crisis in modern, diverse workplaces where work happens via remote and hybrid formats. When people are not in the same room as their colleagues and the workforce is in the midst of drastic changes, how do leaders create a sense of meaning, belonging, and purpose for their teams? How can organizations create a sense of collective belonging while still honoring individual differences? In this provocative, funny, and warm moderated conversation, conflict resolution facilitator and author Priya Parker provides candid, practical, lens-shifting advice on vital 21st-century leadership skills. As a seasoned group facilitator, educator, and researcher, she breaks down the anatomy of meaningful connections and gives audiences the skills needed to create meaningful shared experiences, one gathering at a time.

Should employees come into the office three days a week? Is two days enough? Will they have a dedicated space to sit when they come in and will the new lounge area include a snack bar? These are the questions (still) preoccupying many leaders and HR departments. And while these logistics are important and resource allocation is challenging in hybrid work environments, as Priya Parker argues, many organizations are asking the wrong questions when it comes to bringing employees back into the office well. In this thoughtful and candid conversation, Parker will talk about why companies need a gathering strategy, not a snack strategy if they want employees to come into the office and feel connected to colleagues and their work. Through careful questions and practical tips, Parker helps organizations develop a tailored gathering strategy for in-person meetings, personal encounters, and moments of serendipity that are time well spent for any employee.

In this discussion, Priya Parker will look at the generational relationships, patterns, differences, and conversations that shape workplace gatherings and relationships. How can thoughtfully planned gatherings bridge the gap between generations born into a world of digital connectivity who gravitate towards the flexibility and autonomy of remote work and the generations for whom the office is not just a place of work, but a hub for social connection, mentorship, and professional identity? Parker will help audiences understand that by embracing diversity in work styles and leveraging the strengths of each generation, organizations can create inclusive environments where all employees thrive.

As part of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) work, the concept of belonging is emerging as a pivotal focus. An intentionally designed gathering is an opportunity for people to experience inclusivity and belonging, not just talk about it. The modern leadership skill, particularly in virtual and hybrid environments, is the ability to create for fostering psychological togetherness, even when you’re not all in the same room. In this timely and important discussion, Priya Parker talks to HR professionals, DEI leaders, and diverse teams about how to ensure the right people are having the right conversations at the right time.