HR from the other side of the pond: taboo conversations at work with Dr. Alexander Alonso - Chief Knowledge Officer at SHRM
Taboo conversations at work
This month, I had the opportunity to interview, Dr. Alexander Alonso, Chief Knowledge Officer at SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management). He recently published a new book, “Talking Taboo: Making the Most of Polarizing Discussions at Work”, where he explores those uncomfortable and polarized conversations between employees that have been taking place.
The book is very relevant given the current political situation in this country, and how people are bringing the conversation to the workplace.
1) What inspired you to write this book? The value of having a polemic discussion, and the ability to debate positively. What latinos define as “la polemica”, is healthy polemic discussions about different topics, constantly questioning the status quo.
2) In the book, there are two key tools that stood out to me. The Empathy Polarization Index and the Me+We+WO+RK model. Alonso walks us through both tools in the interview.
3) Another great part of the book is 50 real-world stories on how to apply these tools. Can you briefly share with us one of the case studies that stood out for you the most as you wrote the book? He shares a great story about the concept of “f…” mandates and vaccines during COVID-19 at an NYC hospital.
4) As a final thought to any HR professionals: You mentioned “Sharing is baring”, as a way to be more vulnerable. Why is Empathy so crucial in managing taboo talk in the workplace? How do we find ways to ease people’s sufferings?
Watch the full interview by clicking on the image above, and learn how this book can help you when polarizing discussions arise in your organization.
In the polarized world that we live nowadays, Dr. Alonso has brought simple tools to engage in those conversations and create true valuable debates, leaving aside the political correctness within organizations.
I totally recommend his book, and by the way, all proceeds of his books go towards providing scholarships to students who cannot afford a college education.
