Developing a work culture that values diversity, equity, and inclusion is not a short-term initiative; it’s an ongoing commitment. It takes work to make lasting strides to a more equitable workplace. If you’re struggling to know where to start, we have three principles to help you move from aspiration to integration.
1. Listen, listen, listen. The current workplace culture works well—but only for a narrow group of people. Don’t make assumptions about the best way to open up more access. In order to be effective, efforts need to be deeply contextual. Through individual conversation and targeted focus groups, seek perspectives from within your organization. You will also benefit from learning how similar organizations are finding traction.
2. Cultivate talent. Through targeted mentoring, foster the talent already present in your organization. Not only should you select your mentees with an eye to diversity, but your mentors should reflect the wide perspectives in your institution. If you’d like to learn more about how succession planning can integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion, reach out today to discuss how our team can help.
3. Evaluate and adapt. You will not solve your institution’s equity imbalances on the first try. Integrate quarterly analysis to take stock of what’s working and what needs adjustment. Seek input from individuals at all levels of the organization.
The effort to create a more equitable workplace culture pays profound dividends. McKinsey’s recent report Diversity Wins reconfirmed the fiscal benefit of integrating diversity. They note, “The most diverse companies are now more likely than ever to outperform less diverse peers on profitability.”
