As the Founder and CEO of Career Thrivers, I work to help organizations cultivate an inclusive culture through targeted leadership development to enhance business results.
And, if you’re like me, you’ve been having a lot of conversations recently around diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). You may have a passion for creating a more inclusive culture within your business, but aren’t quite sure how to get started. Well, you’re in luck! I am going to be sharing my essential tips for getting START-ed on developing a DEI strategy in your workplace.
S – Seek to Understand
What does your organization’s DEI data currently say? How can you use your data to begin developing your strategic plan. I want to encourage you to not rely on outside or industry information, but listen to understand your current landscape.
T – Track your Baseline
If you don’t have DEI data available – that’s ok! This is the perfect opportunity to listen to your organization and gain a better sense of your current state. You may need to track some baseline data through research such as interviews, focus groups, cultural surveys, and demographic data. Take a look at your current recruitment strategies and performance and promotion trends.
A – Align with partners
Ensure that you have board and executive leadership buy-in as you are building out your strategy. Connect with cross-functional teams: HR, Communications, Policy, etc. to gain different perspectives and enhance your efforts.
R – Repeat the Vision
Have a clear, compelling, and consistent narrative around the purpose and vision of this work and critical to your success. Every employee should be able to articulate why you are doing this work, why it’s important, why you are choosing to implement now, and how they are contributing.
T – Transparent Communications
Transparent dialogue and sharing of information can make or break your strategy. Be intentional about creating and cultivating a culture of psychological safety across the team so that everyone feels safe to share and speak up in a transparent and authentic way.
Know that I am here to help! I invite you to schedule some time to chat with me, a link to my calendar can be found here. I can work with you on learning and development, coaching, and how to be a strategic planning partner.
