As Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEI&B) is an increasingly important topic, companies are recognizing the benefits of creating a diverse and inclusive global workforce.
What is DEI&B? Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEI&B) refers to organizational frameworks that seek to promote the fair treatment and full participation of all people, particularly groups who have historically been underrepresented or subject to discrimination on the basis of identity or disability. DEI&B fosters creativity, fresh perspectives, and understanding which can foster more creativity, fresh perspectives, and understanding within the company. By implementing DEI&B, people of different races, abilities, ages, genders, religion, sexual orientation, and other diverse backgrounds can be made more comfortable in the workplace. It may include education and training, mental and emotional health support, mentoring, resources for gender identity and sexual health, and paid time off for volunteering. Embedding DEI into Company Strategy Important efforts in DEI are included in every people strategy. Diversity is more than just representation. It is not enough to simply have a “diverse” workforce. Companies need to ensure an inclusive environment where the entire workforce (internal and external) feel values and have equal opportunities for growth and development. Leadership commitment and empowerment is mandatory. DEI must be driven from the top down. It sends a clear and strong message to the workforce that the entire company values diversity and is committed to creating and leading an inclusive workplace culture. Employee resource groups (ERGs) can be a powerful and useful tool: ERGs help employees/workforces connect with others who share their history or experiences. They are a valuable source of feedback for the company on DEI initiatives. Training and education are key for all resources. Companies need to provide training and education on DEI topics at minimum of a quarterly basis. Topics can include bias training, cultural sensitivity training, and education on diversity and inclusion best practices.
The Future of Work Measurement of successful DEI initiatives is critical for success. Meaningful metrics to chart effectiveness of a company’s DEI initiatives such as employee retention, diversity in hiring, and employee engagement will help increase the company’s opportunity for a successful blending of resources. The right companies with the right DEI initiatives will gain optimal market share as the world gets smaller every day and resources are available on a global basis. Every team member, regardless of level, is responsible for successful DEI&B. Our Expertise MSI’s Consulting and Advisory Team brings DEI&B experience from various cultures, countries, and corporate and Big 4 experience. We help you gain a competitive advantage by implementing process alignment to your DEI&B initiatives to your company goals. Our focus is helping organizations optimize and develop long range strategies for our client’s success.
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