This session gathered leaders from design firms, manufacturers, rep agencies, and HR to discuss how lighting businesses can more effectively manage today’s increasingly diverse workforce. The panel emphasized that diversity now spans generations, cultures, communication styles, work preferences, and neurodivergent ways of thinking. Across all perspectives, one clear through-line emerged: successful people management begins with listening, transparency, and intentional communication.

Generational differences were explored with nuance—not as stereotypes but as varying values around structure, flexibility, collaboration, digital fluency, and institutional knowledge. The panel encouraged leaders to use these differences as strengths by forming cross-generational teams, facilitating reverse mentoring, and creating open conversations about expectations and motivations.

Hybrid and remote work surfaced as an ongoing tension. While flexibility is now widely expected, panelists agreed that mentorship, onboarding, and culture-building require deliberate in-person interaction. Leaders were encouraged to model presence, define structured hybrid schedules, and maintain shared accountability for supporting early-career talent.

A major insight centered on neurodiversity. The panel underscored that inclusive practices—flexible hours, quiet areas, sensory-friendly lighting, clear agendas, and preference-based communication—benefit all employees, not just neurodivergent individuals. Psychological safety is essential for disclosure, and universal practices help avoid singling people out.

Regarding equity and performance management, the group stressed structure: clear job descriptions, regular 1:1 conversations, transparent evaluation criteria, and flexible career paths that honor both ambition and mastery. Not everyone wants traditional advancement, and leadership should celebrate multiple definitions of success.

Ultimately, the session reinforced that culture is built through consistent behaviors. Whether inclusive or toxic, culture stems from how leaders show up—listening actively, communicating openly, fostering connection, and supporting people as whole individuals. When teams feel heard, respected, and understood, they thrive.