FREE! Small Actions, Strong Crews: Building Inclusion on Every Job Site
We'll explore how unconscious bias and snap judgments show up in everyday work interactions and learn how to replace them with micro-inclusions - simple, intentional actions that help people feel seen, respected, and valued. Whether you work in the field or the office, you’ll walk away with practical ways to model respect and improve how your team communicates.
Description
In the construction industry, teamwork, trust, and respect are as essential as tools and materials. But even in strong crews, small, unintentional actions - like offhand comments, being left out of conversations, or assumptions based on stereotypes - can make team members feel sidelined or disrespected. These micro-exclusions may be subtle, but over time, they affect morale, safety, and performance.
In this session, we'll explore how unconscious bias and snap judgments show up in everyday work interactions and learn how to replace them with micro-inclusions - simple, intentional actions that help people feel seen, respected, and valued. Whether you work in the field or the office, you’ll walk away with practical ways to model respect and improve how your team communicates.
Learning Objectives
· Recognize common micro-exclusions in construction environments and their impact on team trust and productivity
· Understand how tone, body language, and quick comments can unintentionally cause harm—even with good intentions
· Learn how to replace small exclusions with simple actions that promote belonging and teamwork
· Develop strategies to address awkward or unclear moments using the concept of intent vs. impact
· Build daily habits that support a culture of inclusion, safety, and respect - on-site and in the office
Course Content
· What are micro-exclusions and how do they show up in construction (e.g., ignoring input, assumptions about roles, unintentional jokes)?
· How biases—like assumptions based on gender, language ability, age, or role—can influence decisions and communication
· What are micro-inclusions, and how can they make others feel respected and heard?
· Practical communication tips for job sites: body language, speaking up, inviting input
· Roleplay and discussion: How to handle common situations using the intent vs. impact lens
· What inclusive leadership looks like in high-pressure, fast-paced environments
Disclaimer: The content of this presentation is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice.
Important Note:
We encourage active participation in this workshop, which involves interactive elements such as polls, word clouds, and multiple-choice questions and the ability to submit questions to the presenters. To ensure a safe and confidential space, we want to highlight that you will have the option to interact with us anonymously using the interactive platform Slido.
Your privacy and comfort are of utmost importance, and we want to create an environment where everyone feels free to engage openly. If you have any concerns or questions about anonymity or the interactive features, please feel free to reach out to the ICBA Training Team at training@icba.ca
Delivery Method: Virtual Session – Zoom Webinar
Course Fee Includes: Access to the course, course materials, and upon completion a digital certificate if requested.
Technical Requirements
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Computer or laptop
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This course will involve on-screen interaction with your instructor and classmates, reading/viewing on-screen content (slides or videos), and interacting via typing with questions or responses. For this reason, cell phones may not be adequate.
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Windows 10 or Mac iOS
2. Internet connection - For best results, you will want to ensure you have an internet connection with an upload/download speed of 3-5 Mbps. You can test your internet speed here. The minimum recommended speed is 1.5 Mbps, but anything below 3 Mbps may result in loss of quality or buffering. Ideally hardwired connection versus wireless for stability - connect your computer directly to your router using an ethernet cable, rather than using your home wi-fi.
3. A quiet space with minimal distractions - Please plan to be fully engaged in the class and clear your work schedule just as you would for the in-class program.
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Comfortable chair
Prerequisites
There are no prerequisites for this course.
Who Should Attend
This session is ideal for:
· Site supervisors, crew leads, project managers
· Construction workers at all levels
· HR professionals, safety officers, and office staff supporting field teams