Its Time for Anti-Racism Training to Replace D&I training.

Image found on Google, I do not own the image.

It is time to STOP teaching Diversity and Inclusion training courses and START educating your staff about why your company or organization is Anti-Racist. When you hear the word “Racism” it can make non-black and/or European descent employees to become defensive. But racism is not a bad word. Let’s start by learning the definition of Racism. According to the Oxford Dictionary, the definition of racism is:

“The inability or refusal to recognize the rights, needs, dignity, or value of people of particular races or geographical origins. More widely, the devaluation of various traits of character or intelligence as ‘typical’ of particular peoples. The category of race may itself be challenged, as implying an inference from trivial superficial differences of appearance to allegedly significant underlying differences of nature; increasingly evolutionary evidence suggests that the dispersal of one original people into different geographical locations is a relatively recent and genetically insignificant matter.”

It is my personal opinion, that when offering and training diversity and inclusion we perpetuate racism in the workplace by centering around the “All Lives Matter.” theme. Statements like “We” “All” and “together”, push the narrative that everyone could be victim to racism in the workplace which is simple not true.

I too have contributed to this way of educating companies and organizations and realized that even though the course is about diversity and inclusion, I do not have to talk about the group of people who are NOT marginalized just to make sure EVERYONE is represented. It is hard to get people excited to learn about something they have been doing their whole professional career, and probably life, and expect them to make immediate changes after being forced to take a course for three or more hours.

So, how can we make sure all staff can be educated without tone policing the content?

It is time to move away for throwing the book at adults and focus on what healthy and productive communication looks like in the workplace.

#1 Starting with Human Resources.

We know their main role is protecting the company, so it is time to have policies in place that you are actively practicing. Making sure not to victim blame, or “whitesplaining” what an employee may have meant. DO THE INVESTIGATION!

#2 Speak up.

I know this is easier said than done, but it is really important. Especially for those who claim to be an “ally.” It is also best to make sure you do not let too much time past before bringing up your concerns. Confrontation can be hard, so send an email and save for receipts later.

#3 Learn how to accept being called out.

I understand it may be a shock to your ego that someone had to let you know you that a statement you recently made them feel uncomfortable or discriminated against. I can tell you from experience, speaking up is more painful than your ego. The victim is opening themselves up to a potential hostile workplace. APOLOGIZE and thank them for letting them know. You do not have to be best friends, but your coworkers should know they are respected in the workplace.

#4 Tell your friends.

Spread education not hate. if it is a term or phrase regularly used in your personal or working circles, it is time for you to let people know were confronted and it is not appropriate to use. Become the example of growing from an uncomfortable situation.

Are you ready to have your staff educated on Anti-racism? Hire RSB Community Strategies LLC for your training needs and goals. Let’s get connected and work on making your workplace truly inclusive and diverse.

Blackout Tuesday

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

This week following the brutal murder of George Floyd, social media users all over participated in #BlackoutTuesday campaign. The campaign asked that all accounts post a black tile on their news feed, and use that day to highlight black voices, businesses, and milestones. But as the day progressed, the true character of businesses and users revealled itself. As a professional who has worked with many companies, it was diffcult to see accounts truly miss the mark on what the day was about. I began seeing questions present themselves as others voiced similar concerns.

#Pulluporshutup

On a normal day, buinesses should be evaluating how and if they are promotinf and inviting diversity. This does not mean one black employee; this means that there is diversity at every level in your company. From the janitor to executive level. This ensures that your brand wants their team to mimic the communities they benefit from. On multiple accounts you saw a lot of “B;lack Lives Matter” and “We stand with you.” but followers wanted to see how you were standing with them .

View this post on Instagram

#pulluporshutup. We have work to do.

A post shared by Milk Makeup (@milkmakeup) on

https://www.instagram.com/p/CBB8F6EHTHT/

Milk Make Up made the decison to practice transparency and share with their followers what their staff was made up of. The confessed they “have work to do,” but this post showed initiative and that they know who their employees are.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tCVlouiNqDE&t=46s

Black Radiance reintroduced us to the team by sharing a throwback office tour video.

#Receipts

It is fine that companies want to show solidarity and unity, but lets be honest actions speak louder than words. While a simple graphic of a black fist is fine, the protest prove that actions are needed in this time of crisis. Buzz words like “We oppose racisim” or “We stand in support” or “we are using this time to educate ourselves,” but no follow-up actions are being taken.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CA3Tw9apMgH/

Uber had a shoet and sweet message that shared they were donating $1 million to policing equity and equal justice organization.

I understand not all business have that much monry to give away, but Ihopeduring this time, businesses evaluate how they can contribute to black and brown communities to help support the empowerment and equal opportunities. It can be as simple as a college scholarship, summer internship, or career mentorship. How are you presenting your comapany as one that accepts everyone in the workplace.

#Radiosilence

Lastly, I wanted to discuss the businesses and organizations who made the decision to not post at all that day or about the issue that many of their customers are experiencing now. It was sad to see accounts not taking any stance in the matter and than using the next day as “business as usual.” Lack of a response proves that you choose not to educate yourself of your staff regarding the matter. That is in no way saying you have to fully understand what is happening, but make an effort respect what people are going through and the emotional connection that they are trying to process. I understand not wanting to have a public display on the matter, but time needed to be taken out to address your staff regarding your support to employees that may be affected.

How has your company responded? Need assistance is diversity and inclusion? Hire a professional and lets get connected. Email contact@rsbstrategies.com.

What to do During Quarantine

Pandemic Era

A global pandemic is definitely not what we were all thinking about starting the new year, but hear we are. And to be honest, I have been disappointed to hear that businesses and organizations are having a hard time coping. Now, that is not to say that the U.S. has not had some catastrophic set backs leaving thousands unemployed and businesses on the brink of permanent closure; but there is a lot to be said about corporations and companies who have failed their clients and employees. I know what you are thinking: “It’s easier for you to say, you have not been directly affected.” And you would be half right. There are a lot of things I would have done differently if I knew a pandemic was going to take over half of the year, but I have noticed that I am gravitating towards businesses who wasted no time to set plans in motions.

Fake News

It is not a surprise to see that the media is saturated with news of multiple stores closing in 2020, but this false narrative is putting all the blame on the pandemic and not companies who were already moving towards bankruptcy and store closures. According to Kaiser Family Foundation, the majority of states in the U.S. did not have Stay-at Home orders until late March. So that got me thinking: “When were these major retailers deciding to close their doors?” Business Insider published an article about the “retail apocalypse” siting multiple name brand companies closing. As I read further, the majority of these closures were put into action in late 2019 and early January. That was before Americans even knew what was really in store for the roaring 20’s. Store closing included Victoria’s Secret, Gap, Forever 21, Game Stop, and even Macy’s. What is more upsetting is to think that these companies are trying to hide behind a pandemic, when in actuality, they had not made any changes to make their stores successful even B.P. 2020 (Before Pandemic 2020).

What has worked?

I think it is easy for people to post a “full proof” plan when it comes to this situation, but I have noticed that no one wants to be the first to screw up, but they all want to be the first to receive the biggest return. The businesses who where already set up of food delivery, curbside, online ordering, and even drive thurs (thank you Krispy Kreme) had a much easier transition obviously. Their employees new how to work and fulfill orders on busy and slow days. They were also equip with better turnaround time for computer glitches and last minute changes. Businesses having to not only navigate the new way to do business were also having to learn an entirely new system that was never on their radar to reach customers. As a Public Involvement Specialist, it is my job to forecast trends and stay up to date with how communities like to receive information and pass it on. Often when a potential client reaches out to me, they are taken aback by my proposed strategies.

“That’s not what we are used to doing.”

“We just need a simple approach.”

“Our customer base is more in-person versus online.”

“I Personally don’t like or have time for social media.”

The fact of the mater is to always prepare for a disaster, so you are not playing catch up later on. If you are a seasoned business or a brand new business always start with a strategy that does not require you to retrace steps while hitting the oops buttons.

My Suggestions

I wanted to end this post with my top 4 suggestions that you may consider giving a try that do not cost you a THING! These minor tweaks are not about making huge changes, but adjustments that are actually sustainable. Once this apocalypse ends you want to be able to still work and grow your business, right? Quarantine is the perfect excuse to develop some new skills to improve the way you do business and reach your customers.

  1. Strategy
  2. Content
  3. Research
  4. Try Something New

#1 Strategy

A strategy is a must! But what people forget is that it is something that should change regularly to meet the needs of your business. Every 3 to 6 months, you should be reevaluating what has worked and what hasn’t worked. With social media metrics, it is easy to see what posts have done well, what key words promote more engagement, and what content is especially pleasing to your viewers.

Time to Decide:

How often you want to connect with them?

What you want your business personality to be?

#2 Research

This step cannot be skipped! As much as a tedious task this may be, it really gives you insight to what your customers and potential clients need from your business. Even if you are not a data scholar, it is important to start practicing how to interpret what numbers mean and how they relate to ROI, website traffic, potential leads, and other KPIs.

Make a list of:

Top selling products or services. What key words, images, links did you provide.

Lowest selling items or services. What key words, images, links did you provide.

What were the differences? Locations, time of posting, etc.

#3 Content

Once you have an idea what strategy approach you want to take it is time to build content. In my opinion, if you have good content it will not matter what social media outlet you post it on. You should be able to provide content that gets the message across no matter how people are experiencing it. And YES, having an “experience” is how consumers decide how and why they support a brand or business.

Ask yourself:

Is my content inclusive?

Does my content offer multiple ways to receive information?

How am I encouraging others to engage, suggest, and invest in my business?

#4 Try Something New

Last but not least, try something new! This is a great opportunity to get your customers involved and get instant feedback. Your business will work better when you give your audience an experience, and involving them in a new project is one way you can. This could help with potential leads and a newfound talent you never knew exsisted.

Ask your customers:

“We are trying something new, and want to hear what you think?”

“Any ideas on what you think we should try next?”

“Join us here for new content regarding reopening content.”

Let me know in the comments what you have learned during quarantine.

Set Yourself for Work From Home Success!

Photo by Christina Morillo on Pexels.com

As the world functions under a new normal, it is important to make sure that your home office is set up perfectly. Productivity was difficult for me when I started working from home 10 years ago. Being surrounded by all things comfy and relaxing, had my mind distracted, and it showed in my work. After making some small adjustments, I felt my productivity skyrocket and finally saw myself finishing tasks. I know What you are thing: “But my kids are home too!” I know the feeling. These tips can help everyone in your house buckle down and feel accomplished by the end of the day.

#1 Define your Work space.

Pick a room or area in your home that is ONLY for work. That means you do not Eat or sleep there. I know that sounds really silly, but part of preparing your mind for work is having a space that reflects WORK. Even if you live in a small space, set yourself up in a small corner by the window, or even a counter top. This tip is my favorite tip because you may have to do a little shopping. Make sure you have all your favorite office supplies, maybe a plant, and a comfortable chair.

#2 Make a Schedule

A schedule is a must to keep you on top of your work responsibilities , but I do mine a little different. Because being at home will require some spontaneous breaks, its important to not constrict your schedule with time. I like to make a Morning to-do list (before lunch) and an afternoon to-do list (after lunch). The only time I have listed is Lunch! It will give you something to look forward to in the morning and will have you feeling revved up after lunch to accomplished items on your checklist. Obviously, if you have a video meeting scheduled, add the time. But I noticed when I do not put strict time limits on tasks I do not get as anxious about my day.

#3 Summarize the Day

Its time to pat yourself on the back at the end of the day. Make a list of everything you accomplished throughout the day, and have some goals listed for the next day or the week. This provides an outline of how productive you were and what you need to work on. Maybe that is taking smaller breaks, or scheduling calls and conferences a specific time of day. You can also evaluate when you work best. During those times schedule your harder and detail intense projects during this time.

What about you?

I would love to hear what your tips are for working from home. Leave a comment and let’s stay connected.

Time to Amp Up Engagement!

With most of the world finding a new normal working during COVID-19 pandemic, it is really important to make sure you are engaging your online community.

Check out my family.

One photo was asked but there are 3 separate ideas of CHEESE! The same thing is for your groups and communities. They are all meeting in one place but will use and experience the group differently. So how are you engaging all your members while being inclusive and diverse?

#1 MIX IT UP

Don’t just use one form. Try videos, GIFs, and eye popping images with your captions.

#2 PUT THE HAMMER DOWN

When someone breaks community rules deal with it immediately. Dirty deleting solves nothing.

#3 HAVE FUN

This community met because of you, so let them get to know YOU! Share some family photos, personal stories, and exciting news.

Now get out there and engage! Your community awaits! Do you want to get started, but not know where to start? RSB Community Strategies LLC is here to help. Let’s get connected.

Handling Controversial Topics on your business page

I have had the great pleasure to work with some amazing brands, and often times it is on the worst social media day for their business. I wanted to share my top 3 tips to think about if your business is experiencing a social media crisis.

1. Hire a social media manager or consultant

When talking about topics that are new to your business, even if it is just for a consultation or short term contract; contact a professional who knows the ins and outs of social media. They will be able to help you with the best strategy moving forward.

2. Your team should reflect the community you serve.

You can’t say you promote “diversity and inclusion ” and your business reflects the opposite. Majority complaints I encounter are customers and community members who feel that they can not relate to your brand or business. This does not mean tokenism. Do not just rely on “we have a (black/brown/female/LGBTA+) employee, so that means…..” Is there diversity in all aspects of your business from executive level to entry level.

“This does not mean tokenism.”

3.Apologize

Yes, you will have to apologize! When apologizing, the apology should NOT have a BUT attached. Say your sorry, acknowledge what you did with real words (bigotry, racism, homophobia), and give examples of how you will make a real change. Stay away from words like: our intentions, taken out of context, or it has always been used. These statements come off as dismissive and prove that the blame is on the complaint and not your business.

Are you going through a crisis? Maybe you would like to be proactive and have a “fire escape plan” ready, well let’s get connected. Email Contact@rsbstrategies.com to set up a consult.

Top 5 things to do when Facebook and Instagram are down

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

If you are a social media manager like me, you probably noticed some issues with Facebook and Instagram long before articles starting popping up on Twitter. After combing through panic emails from contracts and coworkers, I was able to treat it like a “Social Media Snow Day” and get even more work done. I know what your thinking: You spent the majority of your day refreshing, then checking twitter, refreshing, then checking twitter again. Here are my Top 5 things to do when social has taken a personal day.

#1 Do you have a Twitter account yet?

This is the perfect time to set one up. You can predict that everyone will return to Twitter for some kind of social connection. It would be a perfect time to set up a giveaway, schedule a series of funny and interactive memes, and a chance for your audience to see a different side of you.

#2 Update your social calendar.

It is easy to get away from planning ahead, so start planning your captions for the next couple of weeks. Especially if you haven’t found a program that works for you, scheduling post, and searching old images for a good “Flashback Friday” or “TBT”.

#3 Start a blog.

Blogging is a great way to increase SEO and drive traffic to your webpage. Using this time to educate your demographics about upcoming products or events, tech a new skill or “hack” your customers never knew, or share a personal story that others can relate to. Blogging doe not have to be long either, so don’t stress if you just want to share some quick pointers.

#4 Build content.

Time to take a field trip. Building content can take a lot of out of a schedule, but with your snow day, it is the best way to leave your office and grab your camera. Try local murals, grab some props or inventory and go crazy. New images will help move dated inventory, remind people what your mission or company is about, and give you a chance to see what your cellphone or new camera can do. The more content you have, the better your social media platforms will be.

#5 Time to email.

Have you forgotten to follow-up with a connection? have you wanted to send a newsletter out? This is a perfect time to do both. Social media is fast moving; and after interactions, posting, and scheduling, you hardly have time to send an email out. Send them today! Empty your inbox and build those connections.

Before you know it, you will be back on schedule and ready for Facebook and Instagram all over again. What do you like to do when social media is down? Share them below and let us stay connected.

Adding a new business location on Facebook

I had the not so fun task of adding multiple locations to a Facebook Business account. It took F O R E V E R!! So I created this document to make it a little easier on you if you are trying to do it. Still having issues, well let’s get connected and start a new contract together.

Add location:

  1. Open Store Locations in Business Manager.
  2. Click + Add Stores.
  3. Click Next.
  4. Select Add Manually and click Next.
  5. Fill out the fields under Add a Store.
  6. Click Save when you have completed all the fields.
    *You can also access your location on your home page of your Facebook business page. Scroll all the way down until you see “Stores” or “Locations”. You will be directed to a page that will give you access to business page manager. *

To Edit locations:

  1. Open Store Locations in Business Manager.
  2. Hoover over the highlighted area, and a pencil image will appear. That is the Edit button. The location will pop up and you will make your changes and click Save.

Keywords: Facebook, Facebook Business Manager, Facebook Page Manager, Facebook Locations.