We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Iwona Urbanska . We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Iwona below.
Iwona , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Do you have any thoughts about how to create a more inclusive workplace?
You have two different formats of the answer for those questions. Feel free to combine or choose any of those 2
Options no 1
Do you have any advice for creating a more inclusive workplace? Are there any moments from your journey that shape your view? Perhaps moments where the workplace wasn’t inclusive or where it was and why you think it was impactful/essential / etc.
All those questions bring many memories that shaped me, my work ethic, and how I lead in the workplace. It was and still is a long journey where you always continue learning if you want to change and become better in your workplace and inspire people to create a better environment to work.
I have had multiple positive and negative moments throughout my carrier that created who I am, but now backing to the past and seeing everything without emotions I know that they all have led me to who I am. It is up to us how we will implement our experience; it is our choice to take beneficial lessons from all those moments. It is up to us to become better workers and leaders, better people, and inspire or follow a work ethic that makes us think “If I have chosen the correct industry” “Is everyone so disrespectful to each other in this work?” Etc. It is ok to change your workplace, it is ok not to agree, and it is ok to choose yourself. It took me time to understand that failure is a lesson that takes to success, and the last most important is ok to know your value!
Let me answer all questions one by one.
Do you have any advice for creating a more inclusive workplace?
Do not forget that as you have a problem, feelings, and ambitions everyone who works with you has it too, so there is no point to give each other hard times and create more problems, there is no reason to be unrespectful, mean, jealous and rude to you colleagues at work.
We all one day had a bad manager who made our life difficult by coming to work every day. How does that make you feel? Creating a healthy environment at work starts with You!
First, take time to know the people you work with; you spend more time with each other than with families- work is not just work. It is where you shape part of your personality; work is a culture if you live in the USA. The American dream comes with a price, and unfortunately, the work system in this country has enormous room to improve.
I would have answered this question differently if I were still back home in Europe, but living here for the last seven years makes me see this differently. Employees in the USA do not have any of the benefits we have in Europe, so as a leader, I need to ensure that I do my best to create a healthy, growing environment for the employees.
Create a culture and ensure that everyone knows “there are no stupid ideas or questions,” everyone can make mistakes until they are willing to learn from them.
Learn how to listen, do your best to find the answer and solutions to problems, and every day do your best and be kind to yourself as you are kind to others.
To create a more inclusive workplace, your employees need to trust you, and your leadership skills, and You must give an example. It would be best to balance being supportive and demanding and create healthy discipline followed by correct training and organization.
Are there any moments from your journey that shape your view?
So many of them, but with time those negative moments become potent lessons, and those inspiring moments where I have met amazing people will always be with me, keeping me going with my belief that You always have to keep being the real you deep inside and not let anybody change You. It took me years not to take things personally working in this “life “industry, with those hours making people react differently.
I will never forget one of my first shifts in the Micheal Start restaurant back in London, where my manager yelled at me for the first time at my workplace. I remember this day as yesterday, and I’m grateful because, at that moment, I promised I would never speak to anyone that way, regardless of the situation. Still, I remember that it was up to me how if would direct this experience. That moment shaped my leadership skills, and I am thankful for it.
I want to take this opportunity to thank those amazing people I have worked with who pushed me to be better and let me believe that what I do matters.
Options no 2
Each of these questions evokes a flood of memories that have played a pivotal role in shaping not only who I am but also my work ethic and leadership approach. This ongoing journey, which has spanned quite some time and continues to unfold, is an incredible voyage of learning. The quest to grow and refine oneself within the workplace, and to inspire others to cultivate a more enriching work environment, is a journey of its own.
My professional journey has been a blend of positive milestones and challenging episodes, each contributing to the mosaic of my identity. When I step back and revisit these experiences with a sense of detachment, I recognize that every twist and turn has led me to my present self. It lies within our hands to extract wisdom from these moments, to transform them into stepping stones toward becoming better workers, leaders, and people. These experiences enable us to ponder questions like, “Is this the right industry for me?” or “Should disrespect be commonplace at work?”
Remember, it’s perfectly acceptable to transition between workplaces, to stand firm in your convictions, and to prioritize self-care. Over time, I’ve come to realize that failures are stepping stones on the path to success, and perhaps most crucially, acknowledging one’s own value is an essential cornerstone.
Addressing the Notion of Inclusivity in the Workplace
When pondering advice for crafting a more inclusive workplace, consider that your colleagues do too just as you carry your emotions, aspirations, and challenges. This mutual humanity underscores the futility of creating unnecessary conflicts or perpetuating negativity. Instead of resorting to disrespect, jealousy, or unkindness, let us strive to foster an environment of mutual respect and empathy.
At the heart of cultivating a healthy workspace lies your effort. Take time to honestly know the people you collaborate with—after all, you spend a significant portion of your day together. Work is not a mere obligation; it’s where your character takes shape. Work forms an intricate thread in the American dream’s cultural tapestry. While the American work system has its challenges, I’ve learned to adapt after seven years here. As a leader, I now feel responsible for nurturing a progressive, nurturing atmosphere for employees.
Instilling a culture where “no question or idea is too insignificant,” and mistakes serve as stepping stones to learning is crucial. Cultivate the art of active listening and problem-solving, all while being compassionate to yourself, much like you are to others.
Creating an inclusive workplace hinge on trust—your team should trust your leadership skills, while you set an example. Balancing support and expectations, coupled with healthy discipline and adept organization, fosters an environment of growth.
The Journey’s Impact on My Perspective
A tapestry of positive and challenging memories forms the backdrop of my journey. Over time, those difficult instances have evolved into profound lessons, while encounters with remarkable individuals have kept my passion alive. I’ve learned not to take things personally in the ever-changing service industry world, where hours and emotions intertwine.
A distinct memory from my time at Michael’s Start restaurant in London still resonates with me. During one of my early shifts, my manager’s raised voice caught me off guard. This experience is a turning point, as I vowed never to replicate that behavior. This instance molded my approach to leadership, and I’m genuinely grateful for it.
As I conclude, I’d like to extend my gratitude to the remarkable individuals I’ve worked with. Their unwavering support has pushed me to excel and reinforced my belief that every effort matters.
Feel free to let me know if there are any specific areas you’d like further improvement on or if you have any additional requests!
Regenerate
Iwona , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Please see 2 options
Option 1
My name is Iwona; I came to The USA 6 years ago from London, where I truly started my adventure with the hospitality industry.
The industry chooses me, not I choose the drive. Find Out is the industry that connects and allows me to develop skills I always wanted, and I’m finding out something meaningful that I’m doing, as it is all about our approach to whatever we do.
I have a degree in Architecture and Politics, and one day, I decided to risk everything and move to England from Poland, where I am originally from. I have always wanted to collect stemples in my passport, see the world, and meet different cultures. It might sound funny, but I wanted to try different foods and different ways of celebrating moments together, find out other traditions, and be able one day to combine all my knowledge.
This is the 5th country I’m living in, and all was possible because this industry allowed me to travel around Europe and the world.
Working as a Manager in the Restaurant or Events Director allowed me to connect with people at every level. Meeting fascinating people who can open many doors for you is a great job.
Working in this industry is like reading a book – every day, I’m turning another page and learning something new. The connection you can create in a warm averment for your guests makes them open to you as they do nowhere else. All those life stories have been shared with us that shape us forever. The hospitality industry is the place where guests drop their masks when they walk in – Sometimes you like what you see, and sometimes you learn who you do not want to be – It is a life business – but it is not only about the guest; for me, is more about the team, people behind the scenes, and people you do not see, but without them, nothing will be possible.
Not in many industries. You are spending so many hours working together and doing a double shift – which I try to avoid for my team as changes need to be made in this system.
The time and effort we put together as a team to create a memorable experience, making us a “family,” creating a bond you do not have in “office jobs.”
That is the reason what I like most at my workplace is the possibility to make a “change.”
What kind of changes: Well, for example, I can give people jobs, help them, see them grow next to me, and, most importantly, learn from each person something new. I have the pleasure of working with mentors who inspire me and help me to make a change in me to become a better leader at my workplace.
I want to think of this industry and my job as a “memories creator.” I want to ensure that all guests walking to my restaurant or event I’m organizing feel that they are muttering for me and that the service I provide is my job and the lifestyle I choose.
I always wanted to save the world – and make changes. Unfortunately, I did not grow in politics, but I found many ways at my workplace to create and improve people’s day, and maybe by providing my experience, inspire them to work one day and do what I do.
What I Love the most about my work is the fantastic food and the people who create the art on the plane. My mum always says, “You are what you eat, “and I do believe that makes me the riches person ever by experiencing all the fantastic food from around the world and finding out all those stories of people who decide to dedicate their lives to giving you sensational orgasmic food experience.
Option2
Greetings, I’m Iwona, and six years ago, I embarked on a journey to the USA from London, where my captivating journey in the hospitality industry truly began.
Somewhat serendipitously, the industry chose me rather than the other way around. It’s the conduit through which I’ve honed the skills I’ve always aspired to develop. This endeavor is all about our approach to whatever we do, and it’s revealed to me meaningful aspects that are integral to my work.
With a degree in Architecture and Politics, I decided to uproot myself from Poland and relocate to England. A passport full of stamps, experiencing diverse cultures, relishing various cuisines, and celebrating unique traditions were all the pursuits that ignited my passion. It’s been an incredible journey through five countries, facilitated by this industry that’s granted me the privilege to traverse Europe and the world.
My roles as a Restaurant Manager and Events Director have provided me with a remarkable opportunity to connect with people on myriad levels. This career path introduces me to captivating individuals who often hold the key to numerous doors of opportunity.
Working in this industry is akin to reading a captivating book; each day unveils a new learning chapter. In the warm embrace of a hospitable environment, guests often reveal life stories that leave an indelible mark. The hospitality industry is where masks come off, exposing genuine interactions. These encounters, inspirational or cautionary, etch themselves into our narratives. And it’s not solely about the guests; my focus is equally directed toward the unsung heroes behind the scenes—those who make everything possible.
Unlike many industries, this one demands extensive hours together, often involving double shifts. While I try to minimize such situations for my team’s well-being, these collective hours forge a sense of family absent in more conventional office jobs.
The cohesion we foster as a team, and the energy we invest to craft unforgettable experiences—these elements transform us into a close-knit “family.” And I cherish this capacity for transformation most in my work—a catalyst for positive change.
When I ponder the sort of change I foster, it spans from offering employment opportunities to nurturing personal growth. Each person I encounter is an opportunity for mutual learning, something I sincerely appreciate. Mentors have been pivotal in my journey, guiding me to be a better leader.
My role in this industry is akin to that of a “memory creator.” I’m dedicated to ensuring every guest who enters my restaurant or attends one of my events feels the personal touch. My service is more than just a job; it’s a lifestyle I’ve chosen.
While my childhood dreams of changing the world might not have taken the political route, they’ve found expression in various ways within my workplace. From brightening someone’s day to inspiring them to follow in my footsteps, these are the avenues I’m grateful to explore.
What resonates most deeply in my work is the symphony of extraordinary food and the artists who create culinary wonders. As my mother wisely says, “You are what you eat,” through these sumptuous experiences from around the world, I feel incredibly enriched. In these moments, I can savor the stories of those who’ve dedicated their lives to crafting sensational, palate-pleasing experiences.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
My life is constantly changing, with small breaks for rest and gaining energy for more changes. That is how I have chosen for a long time to leave my life or decide not to settle down until I feel like I have found my place and created the way I’m going through it. When I said this, I did not think I would find my home in many countries and realized that the people I met on my journey created feelings of home, which opened the door and made me part of their families.
But if I had to choose one story of time, I had to pivot, which affected all aspects of my life the moment I bought a ticket and left for the UK.
When I’m back with memories of these times, I think it was a brave decision that created who I am now.
I just finished university and had a great job as a manager in a logistics company where I have been very successful. Still, I have always known that there is something more outside of my country, and I want to experience it. It was a difficult decision as, at that time, I didn’t speak English, so I couldn’t pass my knowledge and start in the same work position. This change came with a lot of pain and sacrifices.
Believe it or not, it is difficult to become an agency worker and wait for a phone call daily to know whether I will have a job.
It was the first time I had to work fiscal in the warehouse with safety shoes, vest, and helmet – what translation from elegant outfits lunch in the restaurant, but I knew that I had to make this move if I wanted to see the world.
From this point, I had to make many changes and jump into the deep water without knowing where it would take me.
That was a significant life change and made me who I am.
What I can learn from hard – is not to overthink and not wait for the right time, as the right time will never come, and the more you think more reason you will find to stay where you are, as people tend to stay where they feel safe where they feel like they belong somewhere and is to understandbow but if you want to make changes you have put yourself in an uncomfortable situation and remember to not give up in that difficult moment – as they are part of our life and to feel happy we need understand what pain and sacrifice is.
Yes, changes are good but not easy, and that is why only a few of us decide to make them and turn the page in our life book because you never know where the story will take You!
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
Brutal and honest work. I haven’t had the privilege to have any help from my family or friends to help me ever get the job or set me up right away in great company, but In a long way, I find this beneficial for me as it teaches me respect to work ethic and myself.
I have always tried to put myself in my guests, clients or employees’ shoes and try to understand where they are coming from.
I remember every moment I have been mistreated, harassed, or discriminated against at work as a woman and immigrant, and I do my best not to make anyone feel that way.
The industry I’m working in is challenging and consuming in every way, so to feel reword and find positivity in everyday work, I approach everyone differently.
We all feel forgotten in the spiral of the system, so personal touch is essential.
I make sure it is 100% and completely me if I do something. I will never please everyone, but I do my best every day.
People feel they matter to me, and I care what I do and the service I provide.
My main focus is not money but to make a difference – and bring joy in those difficult days. I have pleasure in giving people unforgettable memories; I want to believe that is what helps build my reputation.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iwonka.84/
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/iwona-urbanska-becauseicare
Image Credits
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