Boardroom hustle #19
Understanding STEM in the Boardroom
Some of the brightest minds in the boardroom feel out of their depth when it comes to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) topics, but few readily admit to it.
That’s why unique individuals like our latest podcast guest, Crystal Dilworth, are essential.
Dr Crystal Dilworth is a science communicator, presenter and business consultant, recognised worldwide for her work in translating very complex technical jargon that comes with STEM industries into simplified language that just about anyone can understand. Her wildly successful TEDxYouth talk, “The Myth of the Scientist”, TV and movie roles have seen her excel in an industry that has long seemed mysterious and enigmatic.
She’s interviewed some of our most famous STEM celebrities, including Elon Musk.
Now, she gets to be on the other side of the mic.
Or listen on iTunes and Android.
Through Crystal’s work, she is able to facilitate dialogue, build consensus and create understanding around the science side of business, removing that mystery. Breaking down barriers is her forte, and she has a knack for making science enjoyable for all. This ability comes at a time when science and technology are infiltrating all aspects of our lives, and having even a very general understanding of them is imperative to progress.
Do you want to know how you can better understand and appreciate science and technology? Then listen to this episode.
Co-hosts Paul Smith and Anna Byrne also quiz Crystal on things like:
The communication problems most often seen in boardrooms
How and why these problems occur, and what we can do to diminish them
How information can so often be misconstrued
The lack of any deliberate structure around how professionals in business communicate with one another, and why this creates new difficulties
What are the more imaginative ways we can teach new information in boardrooms?
When does communication become exclusive in the boardroom?
How your board can enhance communication skills and take them to the next level
The benefits of better communication
How generational gaps can create communication errors
Crystal’s tips and recommendations for anyone struggling to become more literate with STEM concepts
Top action item:
The boardroom is a critical resource, and an inability to understand the scientific and technological side of things can create negative impacts that trickle down throughout the organisation. So review how well your board communicates both within itself and with the rest of the organisation. Open yourselves up to the vulnerability of admitting that you may not understand something and work towards ensuring you do, whether that’s through employing a STEM communicator, or even just taking a tour around the workspaces of the people who do that particular work.
We’d love your feedback on the podcast, so please let us know at hello@futuredirectors.com