Active Bystander Training: Standing Up Against Microaggressions in the Workplace

Learn how to recognise microaggressions at work and respond with confidence when you see them. This practical, self-paced course gives you simple, safe ways to step in, support colleagues and address harmful behaviour respectfully, helping you build a more inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued.

For more information, see below
Duration
2 Days (12 Hours)
Modules
6 Modules
Course type
SoftSkills

Course Overview

The course equips employees with the awareness, empathy, and practical tools to address microaggressions and foster a culture of respect. Through six in-depth modules, learners explore the psychology of bias, effective intervention strategies, emotional intelligence, and inclusive communication. By transforming passive observation into meaningful action, this course supports DEI goals and empowers individuals at all levels to create safer, more inclusive workplaces where every voice is valued and protected.

Before You Begin

  • Workplace Communication Skills
  • Basic Understanding of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Principles
  • Willingness to Self-Reflect and Learn

Key outcomes

  • Learners will be able to identify different types of microaggressions, understand their impact on individuals and teams, and explain why subtle biases can undermine inclusion and psychological safety.
  • Participants will shift from passive observation to proactive engagement, learning how individual actions can contribute to meaningful cultural change in the workplace.
  • Learners will enhance their ability to read emotional cues, manage their reactions, and respond to difficult situations with compassion, awareness, and cultural sensitivity.
  • Participants will gain tools like the “Three D’s” (Direct, Distract, Delegate), “I” statements, and inquiry techniques to intervene respectfully and constructively in real-world scenarios.
  • Learners will be equipped to foster long-term cultural change by modeling inclusive behavior, engaging allies, and creating safe spaces that support open dialogue and lasting respect.

What You’ll Learn

6 modules
1Module 1: Understanding Microaggressions – The Hidden Barriers to Inclusion
1. Defining Microaggressions – Types, examples, and impact 2. The Psychology of Subtle Bias – Why microaggressions matter 3. Uncovering the Unseen – How microaggressions impact psychological safety 4. The Ripple Effect – Consequences for individuals and teams
2Module 2: The Active Bystander Framework – Understanding Your Role
1. The Bystander Effect – Why people hesitate to intervene 2. The Active Bystander Mindset – Taking responsibility for inclusion 3. The Power of One – How individual actions can shift workplace culture 4. Types of Bystanders – From passive to proactive: Identifying your approach
3Module 3: Building Empathy and Emotional Intelligence – The Foundation for Action
1. Understanding Others – Building empathy and perspective-taking 2. Emotional Triggers – Recognizing personal biases and reactions 3. Responding with Compassion – Using empathy to intervene respectfully 4. The Courage to Speak – Developing emotional resilience for difficult conversations
4Module 4: Tools for Intervening – Strategies for Effective Bystander Action
1. The Three “D”s of Intervention – Direct, Distract, and Delegate 2. Using “I” Statements – Constructive ways to express discomfort without blame 3. The Power of Inquiry – Asking open-ended questions to create reflection 4. Safe Spaces – Encouraging dialogue and creating non-judgmental environments
5Module 5: Navigating Power Dynamics – Influencing Change in Hierarchical Structures
1. The Challenge of Speaking Up – Identifying power dynamics in the workplace 2. Influencing Through Empathy – Encouraging reflection in those in authority 3. Building Allies – How to find and engage fellow bystanders 4. Shifting Organizational Norms – Creating long-term cultural change
6Module 6: Beyond Microaggressions – Creating an Inclusive Culture Together
1. Building Inclusive Communication Norms – Establishing company-wide expectations 2. Setting a Positive Example – How to model inclusive behavior daily 3. Building Trust Through Vulnerability – Fostering an atmosphere of open dialogue 4. Long-Term Engagement – Making Active Bystanding a core organizational value

Certification & Credentials

SS-Active-Bystander-Training-Standing-Up-Against-Microaggressions-in-the-Workplace
Certificate track
2 Days (12 Hours)

Target Audience

Intended roles

  • Conflict Resolution Facilitator

Frequently asked questions

What is an “active bystander” in the workplace context?
An active bystander is someone who recognizes inappropriate or biased behavior—like microaggressions—and chooses to take respectful, supportive action instead of staying silent. This course teaches how to do that effectively and compassionately.
Will this course help me know what to say in the moment?
Yes. You’ll learn specific tools like the “Three D’s” (Direct, Distract, Delegate), how to use “I” statements, and how to ask open-ended questions to intervene respectfully and with confidence.
Can I apply what I learn in virtual or hybrid work environments?
Absolutely. The strategies taught are designed to work in-person and online, helping you navigate virtual meetings, chats, emails, and remote team dynamics with awareness and confidence.
Duration

2 Days (12 Hours)

Modules

6 Modules

Course type

SoftSkills

Category

SoftSkills

Intended roles

Conflict Resolution Facilitator

Prerequisites

Workplace Communication Skills, Basic Understanding of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Principles, Willingness to Self-Reflect and Learn

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