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What is Professional Presence? March 1, 2024

What is a Professional Presence?   Professional Presence has absolutely nothing to do with how many degrees you have or your title. Professional Presence is an attitude comprised of all the resources you possess to influence others. Professional Presence includes pride in your work and wanting to do things right, regardless of your job function. It is a sincere desire to help clients/customers (both internal and external) achieve their goals and missions while you are meeting your own. Professional Presence is the ability to feel and project a sense of poise, self-assurance, sense of competence, and credibility at work (looking… Read More

Questions to Ask Yourself About Your Brand January 29, 2024

If you are working, start the new year with a review of yourself.A Check List:  Questions to Ask Yourself What do I LOOK like? What do I SOUND like? What do I SAY? How well do I LISTEN? How do I BEHAVE? What do I want to ACCOMPLISH? You can lie to me but do not lie to yourself. Read More

A Few Listening Points January 29, 2024

As we start the new year, begin working on your listening skills.When you have good listening skills, you not only "hear" what's being said but also listen to the whole message. Because of this, you enable others to express themselves fully.Use active listening techniques so that you give people your full attention and look out for the nonverbal elements of their message. Read More

What is Professional Presence? January 29, 2024

Professional Presence has absolutely nothing to do with how many degrees you have or your title. Professional Presence is an attitude that consists of all the resources you possess to influence others. Professional Presence includes pride in your work and wanting to do things right, regardless of your job function. It is a sincere desire to help clients/customers (both internal and external) achieve their goals and missions while you are meeting your own. Professional Presence is the ability to feel and project a sense of poise, self-assurance, sense of competence, and credibility at work (looking confident) Professional Presence is acting in… Read More

Defining KSA January 8, 2024

Terms Definitions Examples Knowledge Mastery of a subject Knowledge of proper punctuation and capitalization Knowledge of correct grammar Skills Physical competence or physically doing something Skill in proofreading Use of job-related tools and aids (i.e., Computer) Abilities Potential of using a piece of knowledge or skill when needed Ability to understand instructions Ability to reason and make decisions Ability to present information and ideas clearly   Read More

Soft Skills August 7, 2022

That’s because soft skills like grit, excitement, and respect make a stellar employee. The skills outlined on a résumé only tell a fraction of the story, while understanding an individual’s work ethic, how they overcome adversity, and how they interact with their peers is much more indicative of success. The hard truth about hard skills is that they can have a short half-life. Constant innovation, technology updates, and new feature release quickly obsolete many of these skills. Meanwhile, soft skills never expire—they are relevant, transferable, and keep a person highly employable.ADAPTABILITY These changes may include a new manager with a… Read More

Success Is A State of Mind August 7, 2022

Success is A State of Mind If you genuinely want to be successful, start thinking of yourself as successful.  There is merit in the phrase fake it til you make it.The only things that stand between you and what you want in life are the will to try it and the faith to believe it is possible.  There is nothing on earth you can't have once you mentally accept that you can have it. The feeling must come first.  It will be so if you feel successful and have a deep inner conviction that you'll always have all you need.So… Read More

Truths I Have Learned Over My Life June 19, 2022

1. We will die; it is inevitable, and we do not know when.3. We all have the same problems (sickness, divorce, rejection, loneliness, to name a few)5. Do not waste time complaining and bitching; it is a disease and can only bring you down.7. Gratitude allows you to see the good in the world.9. You will never be perfect. Perfection does not exist and never will.11. God, spirituality, and religion are not the same.13. No matter your experience or education, you will make mistakes.15. Realize there are no barriers to what you can achieve.17. Live a life of no regrets.19. Meaning… Read More

Quotes of James Baldwin March 30, 2022

Inspirational quotes from Baldwin’s books, essays, and interviews over the years, are priceless observations that still ring true today. You think your pain and your heartbreak are unprecedented in the history of the world, but then you read.— 1963 profile in "LIFE" magazine   Love takes off the masks we fear we cannot live without and know we cannot live within.— "The Fire Next Time"   You have to decide who you are and force the world to deal with you, not with its idea of you.— 1961 interview with Studs Terkel   To accept one’s past — one’s history… Read More

Realities We Must Face by Lady Di March 26, 2022

Realities We Must Face Lady Di Below are a few thoughts of a maturing babyboomer with attitude.  Feel free to add to the list. Healthy is better.  We all have the same issues, so stop feeling sorry for yourself. At some point, we will die. The people we know and love will die. Do not complain.  It is a waste of time. No one cares about your business. You do not need permission to live. Suffering is part of the life experience. Money will not make you happy. You are not on a reality show. Guard your time like you… Read More

Women of Color, I feel you. March 21, 2022

A maturing Babyboomer, I listen to your work career issues, and I can immediately relate.  I know and understand; I understand about working.  I was a car-hop, file clerk, ward clerk, waitress, short-order cook, recreation leader, teacher, a government worker.  I feel you.  I have been there as a Black female who left her good government job to become a “consultant.”   That was over 35 years ago, and I have never looked back. To the Women of Color in The Workforce We are ignored. We are criticized. We are underpaid, and we are stereotyped.  We are overlooked. We are considered followers,… Read More

Quotes for Stressful Times March 19, 2022

This post was adapted from another article.Stress is an unavoidable part of the human experience, but learning how to manage our stress can ensure that we don’t get swept away regularly in a current of anxiety. In medical circles, stress has been linked to harmful physical conditions such as high blood pressure, increased heart rate, high blood sugar levels, and mental health issues such as anger, depression, and anxiety. In short, managing our stress is the sort of critical life skill that only gets more necessary over time. Stress can feel overwhelming when you’re in the middle of it, trying… Read More

Employment - What do you want? March 8, 2022

EmploymentWhat is important to you?  You have identified what you do not want related to your employment.  But have you determined what you do want? Please circle up to 5 factors that are important to you for your successful employment.Money and more money Challenging and impactful work Opportunity to work on innovative projects Excellent compensation and benefits Flexible work arrangements (i.e., when and where you work) Opportunities to learn new, highly desired skills Helpful and supportive direct managers Highly-talented employees A collaborative company culture Clear goals and direction from senior leadership Organizational support to balance work and personal life Happy… Read More

Exert from "Understand and Address Microaggressions in the Workplace" by Natasha Nicholson February 15, 2022

While many of us can easily identify overt forms of discrimination in the workplace, microaggressions are often far more subtle and go unnoticed and unreported. As referenced in a Harvard Business Review article, studies indicate these actions, which are a type of bias, are “at least as harmful” as more overt forms of racism. To address these behaviors in the workplace culture, we need to understand them in greater depth.   What the research shows   Microaggressions may fly under the radar for those of us who don’t directly experience them, but they are a clear form of exclusion and… Read More

Not Just Black History but USA History February 1, 2022

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We Still Can’t See American Slavery for What It Was February 1, 2022

This is an exert from the NY Times of an article by Jamelle Bouie, Opinion Columnist    The historian Marcus Rediker opens “The Slave Ship: A Human History” with a harrowing reconstruction of the journey, for a captive, from shore to ship: The ship grew larger and more terrifying with every vigorous stroke of the paddles. The smells grew stronger and the sounds louder — crying and wailing from one quarter and low, plaintive singing from another; the anarchic noise of children given an underbeat by hands drumming on wood; the odd comprehensible word or two wafting through: someone asking for menney, water, another… Read More

As We Begin Black History Month February 1, 2022

Please understand that education is vital.  This is an example of white privilege. Florida Legislature Issues Initial Approval of Bill That Would Prohibit White ‘Discomfort’ During Black History Education   Even though the Florida Department of Education has already banned the classroom teaching of Critical Race Theory, lawmakers in the state are attempting to go even further, passing a law to protect whites’ “feelings” during education dealing with Black history.  Read More

Quotes to Check Out from the 14th Dalai Lama January 16, 2022

Quotes from the 14th Dalai Lama Think of them as an instruction manual for living a life of peace, happiness, and compassion. True happiness comes from a sense of inner peace and contentment, which in turn must be achieved through the cultivation of altruism, of love and compassion and elimination of ignorance, selfishness, and greed. Reason well from the beginning and then there will never be any need to look back with confusion and doubt. If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion. True peace with oneself and with the world… Read More

A Sad Ending January 16, 2022

I recited this poem in many of my EEO and diversity presentations (for over 25 years).  I was criticized because the ending is so sad.  For me, this poem serves as a warning as to how hate could kill us all. What do you think? The Cold Within By Gordy Graham Six human beings by happenstance In black and bitter cold Each one possessed a stick of wood Or so the story's told.   Their dying fire in need of logs, The first woman held hers back For on the faces around the fires She noticed one was Black.  … Read More

BOOB ENVY, I Don’t Think So! March 16, 2021

I wrote this article several years ago, but it still applies. Remember the 4 Bs. BOOB ENVY, I Don’t Think So! By Ms. Etiquette/Lady DiIn my efforts to keep the youngest working generations gainfully employed, I would like to reiterate a general and straightforward code of workplace dressing. There is a specific group of people that I am addressing this message to. You know who you are (I will not name names to protect the guilty). In several of my blogs, I have mentioned the 4 B’s – how “not to” dress at work. Folks do not want to see… Read More

Thoughts of a Maturing Baby Boomer with Attitude - Malcolm X Quote January 21, 2021

No religion will ever make me forget the condition of our people in this country...No God, no religion, no nothing will make me forget it until it stops, until it's eliminated.  I want to make that point clear...                                                                        Malcolm X Read More

Thoughts of a Maturing Baby Boomer with Attitude January 21, 2021

Ten Things to Know About Political Savvy Presented by Dianne Floyd Sutton Political Savvy, is it self-serving? Yes, but there's nothing wrong with that. If you are going to make a difference, you need to have power. 1. The two keywords are ethical influence. 2. You have been practicing political savvy since your childhood. 3. Your image counts – Identify and refine your brand. Act like your cell phone is checking you out 24/7 - Identify your values – they will be questioned? 4. Understand power is not good or bad…it’s how it is used. Identify your values – they will… Read More

Thoughts of a Maturing Baby Boomer with Attitude January 3, 2021

(1) trying to control things I have no control over (3) being depressed. In 2021 I will be mindful that I cannot control everything and identify what is really in my control as a human being and what is really important to me. I will trust in my God and my spirituality and will slow down to listen. I will physically and mentally keep myself alert and continuously strive for wellness. Lady Di Read More

Brainstorming actions Black people can do to help ourselves during this virus August 21, 2020

Brainstorming actions Black people can do to help ourselves during this virus As a former educator, I was brainstorming and came up with a few ideas that might just work if pursued. This is not the time to retreat or wait for someone else to help us. Appreciate any other ideas that may be viable at this time. If you think this post has merit, please circulate Open Black churches as computer labs for children who do not have access to computers in their homes. Why aren’t churches using their facilities for children who do not have computers and libraries?… Read More

On Voting June 21, 2020

Lady Di practices what she preaches. You got to give back. Do not tell everyone what you cannot do; find something you can do. My sister and I were talking about the many protest marches we participated in in Washington, DC. We marched.   We had to laugh because I said I could not step any more due to arthritis. I could not run from the police, a rubber bullet, nor pepper spray. But I wanted to learn and help in any way I could. So, I decided to work as a poll manager in SC where I live. Poll managers… Read More

IF June 8, 2020

By Rudyard Kipling If By Rudyard Kipling If you can keep your head when all about you are losing theirs and blaming it on you, If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you but make allowance for their doubting, too. If you can wait, and not be tired by waiting or being lied about – don’t deal in lies, or being hated – don’t give way to hating. If you can bear to hear the truth you’ve spoken, twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools, Or see the things you gave your life broken, and stoop… Read More

Invictus June 7, 2020

Another poem that was given to patients at my father's client in Houston, Texas in the early 1960s.    Another poem that was given to patients at my father's client in Houston, Texas in the early 1960s. Invictus   By William Ernest Henley     Out of the night that covers me, black as a pit from pole to pole; I thank whatever gods may be, for my unconquerable soul.   In the fell clutch of circumstances, I have not winced nor cried aloud; Under the bludgeonings of chance, my head is bloody but unbowed.   Beyond this place of… Read More

Some ZOOM Etiquette suggestions May 21, 2020

Do Not Get Too Casual; It is Still Work! Great, you are working at home. You wanted this. Now we can all Zoom, Skype, and use Micro Teams and whatever. Always remember it is still work. Work is a mindset – an attitude – your style of thinking about what you do. Many of you said you could do it at home and even better. Well… In the olden days, 1987, I started my business in my basement in WDC. I converted the whole basement into an office setting. I would get dressed every morning, grab my handbag, and walk… Read More

Maya Angelou Quote for Hope May 18, 2020

Let choice whisper in your ear and love murmur in your heart. Be Ready. Here comes Life.Maya Angelou Read More

PHOENIX May 4, 2020

PHOENIX   By Anthony Spencer Jones Age 14, December 1980   Behold me for I am Black My skin is ebony silk My eyes are a beautiful brown haze My muscles within my body are bands of steel My face is young and full of much vitality and My intellect can match that of the greatest scholars.   I have a great many talents But for all of my beauty, talent and intellect I still am by the heavy chains Of bigotry, stereotypes, and fear.   Yet, one day I shall shatter the chains The chains that bind me and… Read More

HOPE May 4, 2020

As with some of us in the training and seminar fields, our work is slow or at a standstill. Many like myself are using this time to organize things that we had postponed due to work. Right now, I am reorganizing my office with this newfound time. The truth is, I have saved over 40 years of paper and books. I found two boxes of ancestral gems that I plan to share with family members. In my search, I found this poem, HOPE. Considering the life events we are facing, HOPE might create some positive vibes for the future.  … Read More

Maturity April 19, 2020

Maturity Author Unknown This piece is over 30 years old. The original paper has turned yellow and started to decay. It represents what I think is critical for a leader—maturity, not age. It has been and will be one of the measurements for how I define leadership. Feel free to copy.   Maturity is the ability to control anger and settle differences without violence. Maturity is patience. It is a willingness to pass up immediate pleasure in favor of a long-term gain. Maturity is perseverance, the ability to sweat out a project or a situation despite heavy opposition and discouraging… Read More

The Cold Within March 23, 2020

The poem below was recited in my EEO workshops and diversity presentations over 20 years ago.  It still applies today.   By Gordy Graham Six human beings by happenstance In black and bitter cold Each one possed a stick of wood Or so the story's told.   Their dying fire in need of logs, The first woman held hers back For on the faces around the fires She noticed one was Black.   The next man looking cross the way Saw one not of his church, And could" t bring himself to give The fire his stick of birch  … Read More

Integrity March 11, 2020

Profit in dollars or power is temporary, but profit in a network of people who trust you as a person of integrity is forever.•You can think of several examples of people without integrity who are successful and who win without ever getting caught, which creates a false perception of the path to success that one should follow.•It may seem like people can gain power quickly and easily if they are willing to cut corners and act without the constraints of morality.•Dishonesty may provide instant gratification at the moment but it will never last.•Unfortunately, the momentary result comes at an incredibly… Read More

Cubicle Etiquette March 9, 2020

CUBE ETIQUETTE 101   Cubicles are now very common in office settings. Many of us work in office cubicles or other open environments.   An employee can spend 40 hours per week in a cubicle. However, studies show that most workers are not thrilled with the idea of working in a cube because of the lack of privacy and the increased noise.   Life in a cube presents particular challenges. One of the challenges is how coworkers with different personalities, working styles, and preferences and from different cultures can work successfully in a cubicle environment. Some people are more extraverted and… Read More

The Negro Must February 4, 2020

I was sent this piece several years ago from a friend.  I have been told this article was written in the early 1900s by Nannie Helen Burroughs.  (If you don't know who she is, look her up.) I have told many audiences that the U.S. Black /White issue will not be resolved through the diversity movement.  The slavery wounds and damages are intense and institutionalized. It is a dangerous scenario of power and money.  The diversity movement has helped in the effort to move Blacks forward.  But the wounds have not healed, and impacts are very significant to all involved. … Read More

10 Ways to Maintain a Positive Attitide January 22, 2020

Learn healthy ways to manage your stress. Think of challenges as opportunities to shine. Look for the best in yourself and others. Eat light, drink water and get plenty of rest. Exercise for 30 minutes or more on most days of the week. Seek out the joys in life and remember to laugh. Do something nice for others. Make time each day to relax- take a nap. Surround yourself with positive, upbeat people. Take pride in your work and your achievements. Read More

The Platinum Rule - Beyond the Golden Rule January 22, 2020

It’s About Respect – The Platinum Rule!Every religion and philosophy in this world has "The Golden Rule". However, this rule does not take into account differences and unique needs.  Christianity:  “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Judaism: “What you hate, do not do to anyone.” Islam:  “No one of you is a believer until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself.” Hinduism:  “Do nothing to thy neighbor, which thou wouldst not have him do to thee.” Buddhism:  “Hurt not others with that which pains thyself.” Sikhism:  “Treat others as you would be… Read More

To Project a Professional Presence and Protect Yourself Against Charges of Sexual Harassment January 16, 2020

To Project a Professional Presence and Protect Yourself Against Charges of Sexual Harassment Don’t assume that a friendly woman/man will be willing to go to bed with you. Assume only that courteous people are friendly. (if they mean it to be more, they will let you know) Respect a person’s personal space. (USA arm’s length distance) Managers and Supervisors never mix a discussion of “social life” with a job-related counseling session, particularly if you are discussing a disciplinary procedure or a possible upgrade, promotion, or hire. Keep your hands to yourself. (The only legitimate touch at work is the handshake.)… Read More

Thoughts of a Maturing Baby Boomer with Attitude January 16, 2020

The voices in my head may not be real, but they have some good ideas. Read More

A Few Holidays January 16, 2020

Upcoming Holidays!   January 20: Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday   January 25: Opposite Day   February 7: National Bubble Gum Day   February 17: Random Acts of Kindness Day Read More

A Few Quotes January 9, 2020

Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow minds.                                                 Mark TwainKarma never loses an address.                                                UnknownYou are where you are today because you stand on somebody's shoulders.  And whenever you are heading you cannot get there by yourself.If you stand on the shoulders of others, you have a reciprocal responsibility to live your life… Read More

Just Vote November 18, 2019

Just VOTE This message is the beginning of a grassroots effort to get out the vote in the USA, “Just VOTE.” It is not about religion, or gender, or culture, or the color of skin, or political affiliation, or sexual orientation. There is no agenda outside of getting people to vote. This effort is about your right to vote - your right to make your own life choices. It is a grassroots effort based on a conversation with and suggestions from Ronald King, St. Louis, Mo and Dianne Sutton, Simpsonville, SC, about getting folks to vote in 2020. Ron suggested… Read More

Thoughts of a Maturing Baby Boomer with Attitude November 14, 2019

To the young woman working the salad bar at  Ruby Tuesday I say "do not give up."  You will make it. Read More

Assertive Communication November 14, 2019

Assertive Behavior, I win, you win. Assertive behavior is described as standing up for one’s rights without violating the rights of others. The goal of assertion is to find a mutual solution and give straight communication. Behaving with appropriate assertion statements increases the likelihood of success in human interaction. Assertive behavior is active, direct, and honest. It communicates an impression of self-respect and respect for others. By being assertive, we view our wants, needs, and rights as equal to those of others. A confident person works toward “win-win” outcomes by influencing, listening, and negotiating so that others willingly choose to cooperate.… Read More

It is Never Too Late July 30, 2019

Accomplishing Goals Never Stop #4 Last Saturday, I met a specific goal for myself that I would like to share. First, achieving goals does not end as you mature. I did it! I crossed off this item on my list of things I want to do before I die. Today I took a class and test, Concealed Weapons Permit class (CWP), to receive a license to carry a concealed weapon in SC.   It was an all-day class with a written test and target test. I passed and will obtain a 5-year permit in a few months after the background check.… Read More

It is Never Too Late - Accomplishing Goals Never Stops July 30, 2019

Confessions of a Maturing Baby Boomer Accomplishing Goals Never Stops #4 Last Saturday, I met a specific goal for myself that I would like to share. First, achieving goals does not end as you mature. I did it! I crossed off this item on my list of things I want to do before I die. Today I took a class and test, Concealed Weapons Permit class (CWP), to receive a license to carry a concealed weapon in SC.   It was an all-day class with a written test and target test. I passed and will obtain a 5-year permit in a… Read More

Confessions of a Maturing Baby Boomer July 7, 2019

Confessions of a Maturing Baby Boomer#1I have so much to discuss and so little time as a maturing Baby Boomer. But I do not have any advice. Consider me a Sage, an Elder, a wise person. Am I wise? I do not know, but I have had a variety of different experiences, perspectives, failures, and successes that I would like to share with my generation and younger generations. Am I looking for validation? No. Just observations to make. You can decide. #2Pets versus ChildrenIt has come to my attention after reading the posts on FB and Twitter that a lot… Read More

On Treating People - the Platinum Rule April 18, 2019

The Platinum Rule is an expansion of the Golden Rule.   We cannot assume that others want to be treated the same way we do. Equity vs. Equality Aesop’s Fable “A fox and a stork are given the same size dish with the same amount of food. The dish is wide and shallow and very easy for the fox to eat out of. But the stork cannot reach the food properly because its long beak and long legs make it awkward to eat out of the shallow dish. Treating everyone the same does not mean that everyone will be treated fairly.  … Read More

Just a Thought On Privilege April 18, 2019

When you're accustomed to privilege equality feels like oppression. Read More

A Quote April 14, 2019

"You are where you are today because you stand on somebody's shoulders.  And wherever you are heading, you cannot get there by yourself.If you stand on the shoulders of others, you have a reciprocal responsibility to live your life so that others may stand on your shoulders.  It's the quid-pro-quo of life."                                            Vernon Jordan                                            Attorney and Civil Rights… Read More

On Branding - What is Important to you? March 10, 2019

BRANDING What is important to you? During my career development, I discovered that before I could brand yourself, develop personal and career vision and mission statements,  first I had to identify what was important to me.  What did I value?  It changed over the years.  I first wanted money and security.  But my values changed over the years.  This change of “what is important” was made painfully clear after working for the Federal government for 12 years.   I realized that change and variety as well as influencing people were vital to me in a career.  I realized that creativity, independence, justice,… Read More

On Racism March 9, 2019

Racism + prejudice plus powerExert from White Fragility, Robin DiAngeloRacism is a white problem.  It was constructed and created by white people and the ultimate responsibility lies with white people.  For too long we"ve looked at it as if it were someone else's problem as if it was created in a vacuum.  I want to push against the narrative. Read More

POSH Prevention of Sexual Harassment - Here We Go Again! January 28, 2019

Since 1987, Sutton Enterprises has developed and delivered Prevention of Sexual Harassment training (POSH).  I thought after the first round of training after Tailhook people would get the message, but it seems every twenty years it becomes popular again. Remember Clarence Thomas and Anita Hill? In the wake of MeToo, states and cities have upped the requirements for harassment prevention training, with four states now requiring training not only of managers but of all employees.  As of January 1, 2019, 20% of the US population lives in states with anti-harassment training mandates, and another 15% live in municipalities that strongly suggest or encourage… Read More

Happy New Year????? January 8, 2019

If you are reading this post, you are still here, alive.  So here we go again.  2018 was mean, but we are still here.  2019 will be clean and lean.    Even now, as the consultant, it is not easy.  For some, our invoices may be unpaid while the government is closed, the training schedules are all canceled, and there is no planning for the future Please, please, hold on tight.  This shutdown will pass.  I believe in praying and sending positive vibes.  Life goes on and so will you go on.  This shutdown is a time to be creative and personally communicate… Read More

Optimist Creed to Start 2019 January 8, 2019

Below is the Optimist Creed to start 2019:Promise Yourself... To be strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind. To talk health, happiness, and prosperity to every person you meet. To make all your friends feel that there is something in them. To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true. To think only of the best, to work only for the best, and to expect only the best. To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own. To forget the mistakes of the past and press… Read More

Quote by President LB Johnson November 30, 2018

President Lyndon B. Johnson once said, "If you can convince the lowest white man he's better than the best colored man, he won't notice you're picking his pocket. Hell, give him somebody to look down on, and he'll empty his pockets for you."It is all artificial. Read More

Things You Might Not Want to Say October 15, 2018

Things You Might Not Want to Say! (Adapted from Diversityinc.com)   American Indians Coworkers Hey, Chief                                                                             How Indian are you? Squaw                                                                                 Do you live… Read More

Unrealistic Expectations October 15, 2018

Unrealistic Expectations That the problems of the past that have influenced your life must continue to determine your feelings and behavior. That health and happiness can be realized by waiting for someone else to make it happen. That other people are bad is they do not share your same values. That all is lost when you get treated unfairly or experience rejection. That you cannot control or change your feelings That unless everything is structured and understandable, there is a reason to be fearful or anxious That you must be competent and adequate all the time That it is easier… Read More

Setting Workplace Norms – Preventing Sexual Harassment September 17, 2018

Setting Workplace Norms – Preventing Sexual Harassment 1.         Be careful about whom, where and how you touch others.    Note that            touching norms vary among cultures.   2.        Be sensitive to employees' personal space.  Appropriate interpersonal distances           vary from culture to culture.  A comfortable distance for most Americans to stand             for social conversation is about 4 feet.  We tend to move closer to people we like              and away from people, we do not if we have a choice. 3.         Refrain from asking employees/co-workers… Read More

Labels May 5, 2018

Just a thought By Lady Di When people say to you why do you call yourself African American?  Why can’t we all just be Americans?  Give them a history lesson based on Census Bureau data Blacks, like whites, are the only other group continuously identified by the census since 1790.  The language used to refer to Blacks has changed over the decades. After slavery ended, during the second half of the 19th century, census data helped drive scientific theories of race that were used at the time to justify discrimination. That's why the census added "quadroons" and "octoroons" as categories in 1890. These were… Read More

COPING With ISMs May 1, 2018

COPING With ISMs Recognize that ISMs (racism, sexism, ageism, heterosexism, etc.) are a part of USA culture and in every institution:  education, healthcare, media, politics, sports, employment, housing, economics, and religion.  It is highly unlikely that they will go away in my foreseeable lifetime. If you accept this point-of-view as the reality of our society, then you will be better able to successfully confront ISMs when they do appear.  The psychological effects are many:  a negative self-image, self-hatred, rejection of personal history, low self-ideal (expectations), low self-esteem (values), depression, and constant feelings of anxiety in the company of the dominant… Read More

Food for Thought Quotes May 8, 2017

Exerts from "Random Acts of Kindness"Agape is understanding, creative, redemptive goodwill toward all men. Agape is an overflowing of love, which seeks nothing in return. Theologians would day that is the love of God operating in the human heart. When you rise to love at this level, you love all men not because you like them, not because their ways appeal to you, but you love them because God loves them. ~ Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.If there is any kindness I can show, or any good thing I can do to any fellow being, let me do it now,… Read More

Rules to Work By May 8, 2017

Rules to Work By •Be responsible for your behavior.•If you created the problem then solve it.•If you wore it to the club or beach then don’t wear it to work. •Smell and look clean and fresh. •Be early rather than late to work.•You are not all that important.•You don’t get a trophy for showing up for work – you earn it.•Leave your drama at home.•Work takes energy – that is why you get paid.•See your job from your bosses’ eyes.•When at work put your cell phone away. •Take the time to encourage others at work.•“Please” and “thank you” count at… Read More

Shout out ot the Maryland Park Police May 8, 2017

This is a shout out to the participants of the Maryland-National Capital Park Police, Prince George's County Division, First Line Supervisors Training. Meeting the ChallengeBeyond Race and GenderExamining Generational DiversityBelow are the answers of the quiz:1. The first E in the M.E.E.T. model refers to explore differences.2. The second E in the M.E.E.T. model refers to empathize respect.3. The T in M.E.E.T stands for take _____. 4. Remember the Platinum Rule; Treat people as they others as they want to be treated. 5. Identify the most appropriate media to communicate. 6. Micro-inequities are the small communications of disrespect, inequity and… Read More

Ten Things You Need to Know Before You File an EEO Compliant - Part 1 May 8, 2017

So the organization and/or your supervisor did you wrong. Specifically what happened? When did it happen? What was going on? Were you fired? Were you demoted? Did you lose pay? Are you being harassed by a coworker, vendor, and/or supervisor? Did you tell anyone about it? What aspect of your employment do you feel is unfair? Is it covered under EEO? Are there any witnesses to the incident? What do you want? All these questions and more must be answered if you want to successfully file a complaint of employment discrimination.This article is a summary of my professional responses to… Read More

A Really Happy New Year May 8, 2017

Happy New Year - don't forget to be about you. This is almost the end of January and it is important to focus on you. We had a lot of drama and foolishness is our lives in 2015 and sometimes we forget to exhale and inhale and we become breathless. Be a little selfish! This is a good time to reflect on and plan for what to accomplish in 2016. Write it on a paper napkin - send yourself a messages - just do it!According to my professional and spiritual friend Doc Gabe, Gabe Hamda, Ph.D., there is power in… Read More

EEO Training - 10 minutes is not enough May 8, 2017

The original articles is from Fair Measures, Inc. but it validates everything I have said for over 25 years. The case actually reminds me of a case in which I was an expert witness on EEO training in a racial discrimination case in West Virginia. When organizations skimp on EEO training for managers, supervisors and employees the costs are horrendous. Two to Three hours on a regular basis really helps to reinforce the policy and the laws. Ten minutes is simply not enough. First of all the employees do not take it seriously and has no positive effect. Third It… Read More

Just S.M.I.L.E May 8, 2017

People ask me why I am always smiling. Life can throw you for a loop or two. Sometime all you can do is smile. Smile means to me:S = Summon your spiritualityM= Manage your mind and emotionsI = Imagine better timesL = Love yourself and othersE = Exercise your mind and bodyPeaceHappy New YearDianne Floyd SuttonSutton Enterprises Read More

Employers Don't Make Assumptions About Your Pregnant Employees May 8, 2017

After all these years, organizations are still discriminating against pregnant employees. But now they have to pay for it . On November 10, 2015, Legal Momentum (The Women’s Legal Defense and Education Fund), the US Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) each issued a press release announcing settlement of claims of pregnancy discrimination brought by female officers against the Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority (TBTA), an affiliate agency of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, which operates seven intrastate toll bridges and two tunnels in New York City. The law enforcement division of… Read More

You Gotta Have a Plan! May 8, 2017

You cannot play in the game unless you have a plan.  Other wise you are at the mercy of others.  When I am not delivering workshops and seminars, I teach online for the UMUC in the School of Business.  I teach organizational and management theory.  Sounds pretty dry but it is not.  There is a framework I would like to share that applies to management that can be applied to individual development.  Lady Di asks you to put this in brain data bank – POLC.  POLC stands for Planning, Organizing, Leading and Controlling (Measurement).  This applies to management of organizations. … Read More

Defining Employee Training vs. Employee Development May 8, 2017

Employee Training and Employee Development are not the same.  Training means to "put in" while development means to "draw forth".   We know it is important to use both in today's workplace.  Skills and knowledge are put into people but character, maturity, integrity, emotional intelligence and commitment to vision are drawn forth from them.  Employee development is about professional and personal empowerment. Training and development represents independent paradigms.  Practicing these two paradigm calls for different sets of skills.  I have found over the years that most organizations train; they don't develop.  Leadership programs are very important.  What do you think? Read More