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***Apologies for any cross-posting***

Join us for a lively and interesting Professional Development Workshop (PDW) on "Do I Fit in at AOM? Concealed Identities and Engaging Your True Self at the Academy". This PDW aims to foster a discussion about the ways in which our attendees can engage in their true selves, and further recommend ways for AOM to become a welcoming and inclusive organization.  We hope to see you there!

 "Do I Fit in at AOM? Concealed Identities and Engaging Your True Self at the Academy"

The Academy of Management has long benefited from a growing diverse base of scholars each year. However, the roots of AOM are, and continue to be, North American-dominated and Western-oriented. There is an expectation regarding desired behavior, dress code, participation, etc. from conference participants, despite the changing demography of AOM membership. While many divisions have encouraged more participation through a variety of activities and social events, the underlying organizational culture still promotes individualism, and rewards self-promotion and extroversion. In order to fit in, many participants may engage in suppressing particular roles and identities, and/ or possibly imitating behaviors that are not natural or desired to self. In keeping with the theme of Understanding the Inclusive Organization for this year's conference, we plan to explore and uncover ways members may have tried to fit into the AOM conference norms and been alienated, and possibly discouraged, from being a fully participative member. We aim to generate the ways in which our attendees can engage in their true selves, and further recommend ways for AOM to become a welcoming and inclusive organization.

Conversation will revolve around the following three guiding themes:

1. What incidence of concealed identity you experienced at AOM or elsewhere? Reflect.
2. What are the current norms at AOM that you think helps in breaking the ice and revealing the true self?
3. What are some of the ways you think AOM could create a more inclusive environment that helps diverse members to become fully participative?

We look forward to welcoming you to the PDW in Boston!