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Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) have become some of the latest buzzwords in the corporate world. Many companies claim to prioritise DEI, yet research suggests that they must measure up in implementing effective initiatives. Here, we look at signs that your company may be missing the boat in its DEI efforts and provide some great tips and tricks for quickly addressing these issues and building a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace.
If you see evidence of the three following scenarios in your workplace, it may not be as DEI-friendly as you would like.
Lack of diversity at all levels of the organisation
One of the most obvious signs that a company needs to meet expectations in its DEI efforts is a certain homogeneity throughout the organisational hierarchy. For example, if your company’s leadership comprises mostly white men, it’s unlikely that the business is truly committed to DEI.
Minimal employee engagement in DEI initiatives
Another clue? Your staff is not engaged with your DEI programs. Maybe you’re seeing low attendance at DEI-related events, such as diversity training sessions or town halls focusing on DEI issues. Perhaps there are few respondents to DEI-related surveys or feedback opportunities. Or, possibly, the business is failing to incorporate DEI principles into everyday work practices to eliminate biased or exclusionary behaviours. These are clear indications that these programs are not resonating with your employees.
Lack of accountability for progress
Suppose your company has set DEI goals but does not track progress or hold leadership accountable for meeting them. In that case, it’s improbable that the company will make meaningful advances in its DEI efforts.
Five straightforward strategies to turn this situation around
Be intentional in your DEI efforts
This means setting clear goals and strategies for achieving those goals. It also means being transparent with employees about the company’s DEI efforts and progress.
Hold leadership accountable for progress
Again, this involves setting measurable goals, tracking progress, and making sure your leaders are meeting those goals. It also means providing leadership with the resources and support they need to make progress in DEI initiatives.
Continuously assess and improve DEI programs
To make meaningful progress in DEI initiatives, companies must solicit feedback from employees, track progress, and make adjustments as necessary to make sure programs are effective.
Foster a culture of inclusion
Create an environment where all employees feel valued and respected, regardless of their background or identity. What’s more, provide them with opportunities for growth and development.
Provide DEI training for employees
DEI training can help employees better understand the importance of DEI and how to promote it in the workplace. These efforts, too, can help cultivate a more inclusive and welcoming work environment.
Coming together
Implementing effective DEI initiatives requires intentional effort, leadership accountability, and continuous assessment. By bringing these efforts together, companies can foster a culture of inclusion, improve workplace diversity, and increase employee engagement.
Kineo Courses offers a range of DEI-related courses that can help your organisation achieve its goals. Browse our course library today and take the first step towards creating a more DEI-friendly workplace: https://www.kineocourses.com.au/course-library
