Let’s start off on the right foot
"I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word in reality. This is why right, temporarily defeated, is stronger than evil triumphant." —Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
The skinny
Let’s find informative and creative ways to get employees engaged with DEI.
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1968.
Monday is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, where we honor the late Dr. King and his legacy. Assassinated in the height of the Civil Rights movement, he continues to inspire nonviolent responses to racism. Over the years details have emerged, adding complexity to his story. But rest assured, Monday is still a day to recognize the importance of DEI and support our friends and colleagues of color.
Move the needle.
By now, we’re all well aware that diverse teams and inclusive cultures are changing industries with their cutting-edge ideas and values. DEI is good for business, but your efforts must be more than talking points. Without sincerity, DEI initiatives will fall flat for the marginalized employees who need a sense of belonging the most.
Last in, first out?
As the recession looms, DEI efforts are the first to go as organizations trim the budget. Right now, only 5% of recruiters say DEI is a top priority. Yet at the same time, workers want to learn about their employer’s commitment to DEI like never before.
Just the way you are.
While DEI is a complex and evolving topic, it’s not too late to get going. You can start simple with an all-staff email or inclusivity training. Ultimately, support from executive leadership to regularly audit and adjust practices is the key to sustainable success. A cohesive approach to integrate intentional DEI throughout the business will truly make employees feel valued and accepted at work.
Let's get back to MLK.
Monday’s National Day of Service is an excellent time to kick-off your 2023 DEI commitment. Although many employees may not have the day off, employers can still provide opportunities to volunteer in their community, share personal stories, and recognize prejudice in the workplace throughout the year.
I'm all ears.
Listening. Sounds easy, but often isn’t. Active listening is a key factor in all our interpersonal relationships, cultivating empathy and collaboration in the pursuit of diversity, equity, and inclusion. But the real kicker is the impact of managers who listen to their reports. Employees with encouraging, reciprocal leaders are twelve (12!) times more likely to recommend their organization as a great employer.
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