Emtrain’s new skill-building microlessons are designed to help individuals and teams work better together. Based on academic research and our proprietary social capital insights, we’ve identified where unproductive tensions happen in the workplace, and the skills needed to fix them.

Each lesson targets a specific workplace situation which learners experience through a video scene. We then define and teach the relevant skill, and show the benefits of using it. Learners also receive an actionable next step, like a helpful tip-sheet or a real-world activity to practice. Throughout the lesson, polling questions measure employee perception and willingness to change.

Our skill-building microlessons are integrated with our predictive analytics: we’ll recommend which microlessons to deploy based on the organization’s lowest scores. Microlessons may supplement talent development or manage risks in a particular team or department.

• Adapting to Direct and Indirect Feedback Styles — Cultural dynamics and differing communication styles often make giving and receiving feedback challenging. The “feedback sandwich” (ie: giving a compliment, then constructive feedback, then a compliment) may be appreciated in some cultures, but may be misunderstood by people who are used to more direct feedback. (5 min)
• Appreciating Hierarchy in Decision-Making — As we work with teams around the world, we can be more effective if we understand hierarchy and decision-making processes. Some cultures have flat consensus-oriented structures. Other cultures have hierarchical structures where team leaders make decisions and inform their teams. If we don’t respect a team culture, we might put colleagues in an awkward situation, cause unproductive conflict, and create bad outcomes. (4 min)
• Bringing a Different Perspective — Teams make better decisions when they incorporate ideas and perspectives from a diverse array of people. Learn the benefits and the barriers of the workplace skill of perspective seeking. (4 min) 
• Cultural Cues for Quality Conversations — In cultures across the world, communication can be structured or unstructured. What’s normal in conversations in one culture - like interruptions or making eye contact - may be considered rude or disruptive in another. The more we learn about different communication styles and non-verbal cues, and how to facilitate input, the more respectful and inclusive we can be. (5 min)
• Decision-Making Using the Two Gear Method — When we make decisions that have a significant impact or affect other people, we need to slow down and use our big gear. Learn how to switch gears and ensure you are making informed and unbiased decisions. (4 min)
• Engaging Our Active Listening Skills — This lesson focuses on active listening as a critical workplace skill and gives concrete ways to practice and improve our ability to actively listen to each other. (5 min)
• Expanding Your Network — This lesson teaches inclusive networking — we tend to talk to the same people each day, but by intentionally networking with people who aren’t like you, you’ll gain new perspectives, and learn about new ideas, tools, and trends. (4 min)
• Helping a Co-Worker on a Bad Day — People who are experiencing negative emotions like sadness, anxiety, or fear will benefit from the support of others, especially when placed in demanding work situations. Listening with empathy contributes to healthy workplaces by showing people you care and support them. (4 min)
• How to Intervene with Skill — Intervening when you see problematic behavior can be scary, but it's critical to creating a supportive and successful workplace. Learn the best practices when intervening to confront bias. (4 min)
• Monitoring for Signs of Exclusion — This lesson focuses on the skill of monitoring for signs of exclusion in group dynamics as a first step in fostering an inclusive work environment. (5 min)
• Motherhood and Authenticity — A co-worker (a new mom) may have a need that is not met by the workplace (lactation rooms), which makes it hard for them to be their authentic selves at work. We can increase awareness of others' needs by listening and tapping internal and external resources, to create a more inclusive workplace. (3 min)
• The Power of Rethinking Assumptions — By understanding our current patterns of thinking, we can make the conscious choice to disrupt or challenge them, especially those that are rooted in bias. As we retrain ourselves, we stop jumping to conclusions, and instead, we open ourselves to new possibilities. (4 min)
• Recognizing Bias at Work — The ability to recognize bias is an important component of critical thinking and making strong decisions. Recognizing bias involves recognizing patterns. (4 min)
• Saving Face: Framing Cross-Cultural Communications — When working across different cultures, it is important to understand priorities and social norms. Where one culture may value fast and direct communication and welcome open debate and quick decisions, another culture may value formal and polite interactions, reputation protection, and thoughtful consideration over time. When we frame our conversations to align with different social and cultural needs, we are more likely to have successful collaboration. (5 min)

Common Questions and FAQs

Q: What skills do you cover?

We’re focused on workplace and interpersonal skills that help improve respect, inclusion, and ethics. For example, we’ll teach how to recognize bias, navigate hierarchy, seek different perspectives, understand social cues, build a supportive network, be an active listener, ensure accountability, etc.

Q: How do I know what microlesson to use?

After taking one of Emtrain’s foundational courses (such as Preventing Workplace Harassment, or Unconscious Bias,) you’ll review your indicator scores; we’ll recommend microlessons for your lowest-scoring competencies. Microlessons may also be used ad hoc to support your learning and development or diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Q: How will your skill-building microlessons help?

Employees will be more aware of workplace interactions that negatively impact their colleagues. They’ll gain the skills to help remedy the situation by changing their own behavior or encouraging others to do so. They’ll be more likely to avoid or prevent negative situations in the future, creating a more respectful and inclusive workplace culture.