By Eva Massimino, Esq.

Bendett & McHugh, P.C.

USFN Member (CT, ME, MA, NH, RI, VT)

The Table --not just any table, the table. It’s the place from which all important decisions seem to flow. Where policy and strategy discussions are held. Where “important people” decide “important things.” The decisions made at the table impact the lives and careers of many who are not involved in the conversations leading up to them. Too often, these decisions are made without providing a voice to entire groups of people. The table becomes an echo chamber of ideas and fails to consider the diverse needs of the people it impacts. So, how do we ensure diverse voices are heard? How do we get a seat at the table? And once there, how do we use our seats to serve more than just our own interests?

Historically, the tables where decisions are made have been treated as exclusive clubs with all the seats occupied by like-minded people from similar backgrounds. It is certainly intimidating to encounter a group of leaders and come to the realization that none of them look like you, none of them come from where you came from, and you cannot connect with them from a perspective of a shared experience. We may have much to offer, but self-doubt will sneak up on even the most confident person in the face of a group of decision makers who do not reflect them. In reality, we all thrive when there are people of all ages, genders, races, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds contributing to the decision-making process. This realization is spreading, and the value of diversity at the table is becoming clearer. However, the effort cannot be unilateral. It takes work from both those who wish to gain a seat at the table and those who need to make room for others to join.

It goes without saying that a seat must be earned. To occupy a position of influence, we absolutely must be willing to put in the work to learn the skills valued by our industry. We also must be willing to continue to learn from people of all experience levels around us. But hard work alone doesn’t guarantee that our voices will be heard, our opinions valued, and our hard-earned expertise requested. Diversity of opinions requires a representative diversity of people seated at the table. Breaking into a group of decision makers in our industry requires some showmanship—especially if we are trying to present a new idea or perspective. The initial reaction to change may be doubt, fear, and skepticism. If we want our voices to be heard, we should also be trustworthy and confident in our skills and expertise.

With a backdrop of expertise, we simply cannot be afraid to make our opinions known. Our perspectives and contributions may have significant value, and our participation can be a catalyst for an innovative solution. Valuable contribution alone should earn us a seat at the table. In our industry, knowing how to deliver a message is just as important as the message. We need to be able to communicate clearly and persuasively to convince others to not only take a moment to listen to our new perspectives, but also to trust that our ideas are worth trying. With confidence in our message, our expertise, and the value of our contribution, perhaps it is time to simply pull up a seat without an invitation. It may mean approaching the problem from a different angle, presenting our ideas in a different way, or it may just require leading by example and starting a new table. There may not be room for everyone at the table, but there is most definitely room for all perspectives, and we should feel confident that our ideals are represented.

With a seat at the table secured, what’s next? With “power” comes responsibility. Once we have earned a seat at the table with diverse and innovative ideas and perspectives, the drive to make a positive impact should not sputter when we finally acquire some influence. Most importantly, we must be willing to shatter the echo chamber and work to make room at the table for others who can help round out the conversation. Skill and influence are empty without the willingness to mentor newcomers and nurture innovation and diversity. Transparency surrounding our journey and our own hurdles can go a long way in encouraging others to bring their ideas to the table sparking progress, inclusivity, and the satisfaction of knowing we are each making an impact.

Diversity at the table is not just an initiative, it’s a resource that has not been fully tapped. There are countless voices that have not been given the platform to be heard, and they can make a major impact. If you are seated at the table, scoot over and make some room. If you haven’t been offered a seat yet, pull up a chair. Let’s talk.

Copyright @2022

USFN Report - Winter 2022