Resolving Intersectional Challenges Within Organizations w/ Nirupama Hayden
On this episode of AnthroPuzzled, we were honored to interview Nirupama Hayden, a Certified Diversity Executive and Associate Consultant. We discuss how anthropological knowledge is vital in jobs with diversity components and in negotiation.
Companies today face a multitude of challenges, among the most pressing being issues related to belonging and inclusion. These challenges lead to inefficiencies in client services and create unhealthy work environments. As a diversity executive, Nirupama works with companies to identify the best solutions to these problems and ensure they do not arise again.
Nirupama applies her understanding of anthropology to address the root causes of workplace issues. She also leverages these skills to analyze and navigate the unique social environments within each company. According to her, many workplace problems stem from miscommunication between different levels of the organization. To foster an ideal work environment, employees must learn to collaborate, compromise, and communicate effectively. Her work ensures that all employees feel safe and heard in their workplace. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and addressing diversity issues with care and intentionality.
Beyond consulting, Nirupama also applies her anthropological expertise in teaching. She creates positive learning environments that significantly increase passing rates and enhance student success. By incorporating the communication skills she advocates for as a diversity executive, she makes her classes engaging and impactful. Her teaching leaves lasting impressions on many students, even altering the course of their lives.
Stay tuned to learn more about how anthropology skills are an asset in diversity and consulting work.