It Starts with You: Relationship Building at Berkeley

Presenters: Charlotte Cowden and Jennifer Mora

About: Working at a large university can be difficult to navigate, and creating connections in a decentralized environment is sometimes a challenge. And this was before 2020. This past year, we stretched, pivoted, and demonstrated resilience in new and unexpected ways. As we reimagine our work life in the coming year, strengthening relationships with campus colleagues will require creativity and courage to get out of our comfort zones. Our relationships are critical to making connections, feeling satisfied at work, and building community at UC Berkeley. How can we make Berkeley feel small and a place where we all belong? It starts with you!

In this session, we will explore ways to foster a culture of recognition and appreciation, find space to connect with others, and cultivate strategies to champion our contributions. We will share ways that staff can empower themselves and intentionally lift each other up in the workplace. Topics include: developing your personal and professional networks; celebrating your accomplishments; and communicating in a decentralized environment.

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