We develop leaders, organizations, and partnerships with clients who are working toward a more just world.

Hello ☎️,

This month, we led several sessions on communications strategies for groups of state government employees. We explored how communication is not just shaped by our words, but also by the systems that determine who gets heard, what information is shared, and how it is shared.

Key themes included:

• Communication is power. Every decision about how we share information, from messages delivered to employees from leadership to Teams chats, can shape perceptions of belonging and value.

• Communication changes us. When we truly listen, not just sharing out information, we’re allowing ourselves and our organizations to evolve.

• Communication is systemic. By focusing on communication processes, in addition to individual relationships, we can create more sustainable change and inclusion .

Communicating effectively isn’t just about what we say, it’s also about building systems that help everyone feel seen, heard, and valued.

Best,

Allison

What We’re Reading

6 Ways to Practice Everyday Courage

• This Harvard Business Review article shares six ways to practice courage in the workplace. It’s a good reminder that courage isn't just about bold, dramatic acts. It shows up in everyday choices that help you have a positive impact on your workplace and community.

Women in Leadership: The Times They Are A-Changin’

• Long Beach Deputy City Manager, Meredith Reynolds, and Herocrats guest blogger, published an article in the Women in Leadership column for International City/County Management Association (ICMA) about how leadership in local government is shifting from hierarchy to authenticity, empathy, and inclusion.

Who Leads Minnesota?

• An interactive dashboard from Minnesota Compass analyzes who holds leadership positions across the state’s business, nonprofit, and government sectors. Key findings include women and people of color remain underrepresented in leadership compared to their share of Minnesota’s adult population, although government leaders are generally more reflective of the state’s diversity than business or nonprofit leadership.

Opportunities to Learn + Lead

Local Gov 250 and National Academy of Public Administration are accepting applications for Government Champions 250, which celebrates 250 exceptional public servants across all levels of government who exemplify dedication, innovation, and impact. Apply online by November 15.

WTS Minnesota is offering several scholarships for students pursuing a career in a transportation-related field, including those enrolled in high school, undergraduate programs, graduate programs, and technical programs. Share with the future herocrats in your life! Apply online by November 30.

Jobs for Herocrats

Minnesota Management and Budget is hiring a Statewide Planner to lead the development of statewide, long-range strategic plans on high-priority issues for Minnesota. This work will include developing and managing planning efforts across multiple state agencies. Apply online by November 3.

The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) Office of Research and Innovation is hiring a Principal Data Scientist responsible for overseeing the collection and analysis of datasets that support ARC and regional planning. Apply online by November 14.

Give a Herocrat the Spotlight

Know a state or local government employee who’s building relationships and making an impact in their community? Nominate them to be highlighted on our website, newsletter, and social media!

Helen Ghebre is the Director of Community Relations at the Minnesota Department of Human Services. She works with partners across Minnesota to make human services more responsive to the people they serve. We spoke with her about what’s changing in how government engages communities. Read her story!