How do you optimize your organization’s culture? How do you create an environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging? As we carve out organizational goals and KPI’s for 2022, now is the perfect time to consider diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
Data shows that having a diverse team fuels innovation and boosts the bottom line of all organizations. It’s time to take an honest look at how your organization is addressing inclusivity and not hesitate to make the necessary changes to incorporate a supportive DEI culture.
For some organizations, inclusion happens more organically and is simply a part of its fiber; but for most of us, it is a process that requires new attitudes and adjustments. To achieve an effective level of inclusion, its best to be intentional by having an inclusive strategy in place. Take a minute to look around at your leadership structure—if diversity and inclusion is not indicative at this level, you likely have a lot of work to do.
An organization that reflects strong DEI principles is usually championed by those at the top and is symbolic of the level of commitment an organization has to DEI. Many organizations make notable diversity and inclusion statements; however, there is variation in their external-facing words and internal actions.
How can organizations overcome this?
First, revisit your organization’s strategic plan. It should reflect well-defined DEI goals with a clear path to implementation. Consider what your organization looks like now, versus what it will look like with DEI prioritized. A best practice is to engage your team in this significant process. How do they feel about DEI? What are the gaps from their perspective? What is most important to them, right now?
Implementing a comprehensive diversity, equity, and inclusion strategy makes an impact and establishes belonging–it does not just fill a quota. DEI is an undoubted driver of ingenuity in the workplace and it is proven that magic happens with more diverse people contributing to solutions. Organizations with actionable DEI strategies are more likely to retain talent across the board, not just among people of color. When an organization is dedicated to a mission greater than itself, employees are happier and perform their best work.
Author
Megan Wagner, Director of DEI and Business Partnerships