Tailored Learning Experiences that Drive Workplace Engagement!
In a world where diversity is celebrated, but true inclusion remains an elusive goal, one leader stands out as a beacon of change. Shari Collins, a passionate advocate for inclusive workplaces, has dedicated over 25 years to transforming organizational cultures and empowering teams to embrace their diverse identities.
Shari’s journey began in education, where her passion for teaching laid the groundwork for her transition to workplace development in 2012. Realizing the power of tailored learning experiences, she founded Shari Collins Consulting to empower workplaces through inclusive training. As the Owner, her primary goal is to provide actionable strategies through customized workplace initiatives that address specific organizational needs.
With extensive experience in designing effective training programs, Shari collaborates closely with clients to create tailored sessions that promote a positive workplace culture. Her innovative approach has led to increased engagement, loyalty, and productivity among employees, as organizations embrace the benefits of an inclusive environment.
In 2024, Shari addressed critical issues such as ageism bias at prestigious events in Portugal, Ireland and the University of Cambridge. Her commitment to collective impact is evident in her local, national and international initiatives, where she inspires others to embrace change and become advocates for a better world.
Through her work, Shari is not just reshaping policies but also nurturing an environment where every voice is heard and valued. Her impact resonates deeply as organizations experience the transformative power of inclusive leadership.
With Shari leading the charge for inclusive workplaces, she is a testament to the power of one person being a difference maker. Her dedication and passion for empowering teams have cemented her as a trendsetter in the workplace development profession and inspired others to join her in shaping a more equitable and inclusive future.
Let us learn more about her journey:
Shari Collins: Champion of Inclusivity and Growth
Shari Collins, a lifelong Nebraskan, has dedicated over 25 years to fostering inclusive environments and driving organizational growth. Her passion for education and adult learning theory led her to transition from teaching to workplace development in 2012.
Shari’s confidence in her abilities as a trainer and consultant inspired her to start her own woman-owned business, Shari Collins Consulting, where she now empowers workplaces through inclusive training and consulting.
With a deep understanding of the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion, Shari is committed to helping organizations create more engaged, loyal, and productive teams.
Shari Collins Consulting: Goals for Organizational Growth and Inclusivity
Shari Collins, the owner of Shari Collins Consulting, aims to enhance workplaces by fostering inclusivity and driving organizational growth. Her primary goal is to provide actionable strategies through customized workplace initiatives that address specific organizational needs.
With extensive experience in designing effective training programs, Shari collaborates closely with clients to create tailored sessions that promote a positive workplace culture. In 2024, she expanded her reach internationally, speaking on ageism bias at events in Lisbon, Galway, and the University of Cambridge, and on workplace happiness and social capital at an international conference in Costa Rica.
Shari’s commitment to collective impact is evident as she leads transformative efforts in her hometown, state and country. Guided by the mantra of activist Delores Huerta, she believes “Every moment is an organizing opportunity, every person a potential activist, every minute a chance to change the world.”
Addressing Collaboration Challenges in Organizations
Shari recognizes that communication is a significant challenge for many organizations, which is why she utilizes the Real Colors Inventory with her clients. As a certified facilitator, she helps teams understand their temperaments, improving communication skills and enhancing teamwork.
This assessment fosters stronger relationships and provides valuable insights into team dynamics, paving the way for better collaboration. Additionally, Shari notes that a lack of trust has become increasingly prevalent.
She also addresses issues related to technology, where insufficient or overly complex platforms hinder collaboration. By guiding teams to revisit their goals, mission, and priorities, Shari ensures alignment and enhances collaborative efforts.
The Impact of Educational Experience on Consulting Practices
Shari’s extensive background in education profoundly shapes her consulting practices today. Her strong communication skills, honed as an educator, are directly applied to her work with teams and workshops. Adaptability, a vital trait for both educators and consultants, allows her to pivot when necessary, ensuring that the consulting process remains effective.
Shari’s passion for problem-solving is crucial; each client presents unique challenges that require tailored solutions rather than generic presentations. She meticulously crafts workshops specific to each industry and set of goals.
Additionally, her experience as an educator has equipped her with essential project management skills, enabling her to juggle multiple clients worldwide effectively. Most importantly, Shari emphasizes the significance of relationship building, which adds depth and meaning to her consulting work. Ultimately, she believes that successful consulting is fundamentally about connecting with people and fostering meaningful interactions.
A Successful Project Case Study Driving Change
Shari describes her most successful projects as year-long endeavors that emphasize collaboration, employee involvement, and comprehensive training. By maintaining multiple points of contact throughout the process, she fosters a culture of engagement and learning. Shari leverages her Gallup strengths Woo, Relator, and Positivity to build meaningful relationships with clients, often remaining in touch long after contracts end.
This connection to people is a cornerstone of her success. Additionally, her strengths as a Maximizer, Achiever, Responsibility, Activator, and Arranger drive her commitment to facilitating growth and change within organizations.
Shari recognizes that effective change management is essential for organizational development, ensuring that clients can adapt and thrive. Ultimately, she believes that happy clients are the best indicator of a job well done, reflecting the positive impact of her consulting efforts on their success and growth.
Strategies for Fostering Inclusive Workplaces
To foster inclusive environments in workplaces, Shari emphasizes the importance of comprehensive Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) training tailored to the specific needs of each organization. She advocates for training that spans all levels, from C-suite leaders to individual contributors, ensuring that everyone is engaged in the process. Customized, scenario-based learning is crucial for addressing unique industry challenges and promoting inclusive practices across hiring, promotions, and feedback mechanisms.
Establishing Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) can create a sense of belonging and community. Additionally, implementing strong mentorship and sponsorship opportunities enhances inclusivity. Training in inclusive language, cultural sensitivity, and accessibility is vital, as is equipping leadership with Inclusive Leadership strategies. Shari believes that ongoing DEI initiatives are essential for lasting change; thus, organizations should continuously invest in training that aligns with their goals and fosters a culture of belonging for all employees.
Measuring the Impact of Consulting on Organizational Growth and Employee Satisfaction
Shari believes that measuring the impact of consulting is crucial for driving organizational growth and employee satisfaction. She emphasizes the importance of tracking metrics that align with the organization’s goals, whether it’s profitability, revenue growth, customer retention rates, or new customer acquisition.
Employee turnover rates and satisfaction surveys provide valuable insights into the well-being of the workforce. Shari also examines innovation indicators, such as new product and service launches, as well as patent applications, to gauge the organization’s ability to adapt and thrive. Qualitative data, gathered through listening sessions and informal interviews, complements the quantitative metrics, offering a comprehensive view of the organization’s progress.
Repeat customers and word-of-mouth referrals serve as powerful endorsements of Shari’s impact, while social media posts highlighting her work demonstrate the organization’s satisfaction with her consulting services.
The Importance of Social Capital in the Workplace
Social capital plays a crucial role in fostering a positive workplace culture, as highlighted by Shari, who offers workshops on the link between happiness and social capital. In May 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General declared loneliness a public health crisis, equating its impact to smoking 15 cigarettes daily. Social connections provide essential benefits such as belonging, support, and joy. Research shows that 40% of employees feel isolated at work, making it vital for organizations to enhance social capital.
Shari encourages attendees to create eco-maps of their social connections to identify key relationships that can foster collaboration and support. She promotes strategies like intergenerational friendships, regular check-ins, mentoring programs, and team-building activities to amplify social capital. These initiatives not only reduce loneliness but also increase productivity and resilience within teams. By prioritizing social capital, organizations can improve employee satisfaction, drive innovation, and create a more engaged workforce, ultimately leading to greater organizational success and well-being.
Advice for New Consultants in Organizational Change
Shari offers invaluable advice to new consultants entering the field of organizational change: “Just do it.” She encourages aspiring consultants not to wait for permission from others or societal approval to start their businesses. Reflecting on her journey, she wishes she had leaped sooner.
A Growth Mindset is essential in consulting, as is embracing the Continuous Improvement Cycle, which involves planning, executing, analyzing, gathering client feedback, and revising to create optimal solutions. While marketing through platforms like her website and LinkedIn is important, Shari believes that word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied clients are the most effective form of promotion.
Building strong relationships with clients is crucial, understanding their needs, successes, and pain points through active listening fosters trust. Shari emphasizes the importance of providing individualized plans rather than generic presentations. Staying organized while managing multiple clients requires consistency and adaptability.
She also highlights the importance of continuous learning, setting a personal goal to read at least ten professional articles or book chapters daily. This commitment to growth recently led her to earn a psychological safety certification, enhancing her ability to serve clients effectively. Ultimately, Shari cherishes the autonomy of entrepreneurship and the opportunity for self-directed professional development.
Finally, Shari suggests finding a way to give back, as she volunteers for multiple causes in her community. She is currently serving on two Boards, Human Resource Association of the Midlands, and HR-Nebraska State Board, which afford her opportunities to share her expertise and philanthropic endeavors.
