10 Ways Employees Can Support Diversity and Inclusion
In most organizations, diversity and inclusion is best
approached with a top-down, bottom-up strategy. While it’s imperative that
D&I efforts are supported by the CEO and actively engages leaders, one
cannot discount the impact of employee involvement. Engaging employees at all
levels is the most effective way to reach critical mass and communicate the
import of Diversity and Inclusion consulting.
Often employees are eager to join in the process but lack the know-how and
confidence to take action. It is important to let employees know that there are
many ways to contribute and support D&I efforts and does not necessarily
require expertise in the field.
This article offers some concrete tips that are
designed to engage employees at all levels within the organization. Remember it
is important to commit to the process, value the thoughts and ideas of
everyone, and celebrate along the way.
How
Employees Can Support Diversity and Inclusion
1. Know
the diversity goals and vision of your organization and its connection to the
overall business objectives. Commit to the process by understanding how
diversity impacts your role, and how your role impacts the success of the
diversity initiative.
2. Participate
in employee engagement surveys and respond as openly and honestly as possible.
Finding an internal champion with whom you can comfortably express concerns
and/or elicit advice can be instrumental in supporting your efforts.
3. Actively
engage in the Diversity and Inclusion consultants effort.
You can take part in or start an Employee Resource Group, or volunteer to chair
or serve on committees that organize diversity-related events and activities.
Consider becoming a mentor, mentee, or part of a co-mentoring relationship.
These activities require a commitment of time, but represent a valuable
opportunity for personal and professional development.
4. Become
culturally competent. Take the time to learn about different cultures, races,
religions and backgrounds represented by your colleagues. Ask your coworkers to
share some of the customs and practices associated with their cultures. Become
familiar with diversity-related terms and, if you err, apologize and ask for
help.
5. Treat
people in a way they wish to be treated rather than the way you wish to be
treated. Common social activities and practices that are comfortable for you
may not be comfortable for everyone. Do not tell offensive jokes that may
alienate those who are different from you — even if they are not present at the
time. Most importantly, be respectful always. Diversity exists everywhere — not
just in the office. Take these diversity principles into your community and
your home.
6. Drive
positive change in the organization. Be a spokesperson for diversity issues
that are not necessarily your own. Any organization will find it difficult to
ignore the powerful voice created when groups representing different diversity
dimensions unite.
7. Welcome
ideas that are different from your own, and support fellow teammates. The
creativity that comes with diversity can help you generate new ideas or improve
a process already in place. It can also make work more interesting, engaging,
and fun.
8. Understand
the diversity elements you personally bring to the organization. Diversity
comes not only in the form of culture, race, and gender but also includes
elements such as socio-economic background, education level, geographic
location, sexual orientation, thought, and many others. Each of us brings to
the table a lifetime of experiences and knowledge. Each of us is different and
adds value to the organization because of these differences.
9. Commit
to continuous improvement. Be willing to learn, accept feedback, and listen to
the concerns of those around you. Even the most enlightened individual can find
opportunities for growth.
10. Communicate
and educate. Diversity work is a journey, not a destination. It takes time,
patience, and perseverance. Be tolerant of coworkers who do not yet appreciate
the value of diversity or who may not always behave respectfully. Often,
negative behavior comes from ignorance rather than malice. A willingness to
educate can go a long way.
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