This is a guest blog by The Acacia Company.
There are 3 common pitfalls we want to share with you that organizations run into as they start trying to do DEI work. It's not uncommon for folks who are just starting this work to go in with a lot of energy and ambition to make change - and that's great! Where it goes wrong and can cause more harm is when energy and ambition aren't accompanied by thoughtful consideration of how to center equity.
Every DEI approach should consider these four critical factors:
1. Center marginalized employees and reduce harm. Without this perspective, your strategy will have some large gaps and won't actually be addressing your employees' needs. It could end up causing even more harm.
2. Be realistic about resources (people, money, time). Successful change management, takes resources and an honest view of the current state of the organization. You’ll have to understand the true bandwidth available to be able to set an appropriate pace and scope and align expectations.
3. Aligned to company mission/vision/values/goals. All organizations are unique and so, every DEI strategy is going to be different. We know from change management theories that all changes are more likely to stick and resonate with employees, when the changes don’t conflict with the work that people are already doing. A compelling DEI plan, is one that is in line with a company’s mission, vision, values, and goals. DEI should not feel separate.
4. Structural changes that address root causes of inequity. Solutions that only address symptoms or ignore the real problems will not create lasting transformation or impact. Changes should results in equitable outcomes. Be sure to have a comprehensive understanding of your organization's current reality.
Include these 4 factors in your efforts so that you can avoid these common pitfalls. A thoughtful plan that addresses systemic inequity and centers the folks it's meant to serve is going to have the best result.
Learn more. Know more. Do better.
#Diversity #Equity #Inclusion #Strategy #DEI #DEIStrategy #Nonprofit #NonprofitManagement #SustainableGrowth #ChangeManagement
Take the DEI Strategy Assessment to learn what to prioritize based on which stage your organization is at: https://www.theacaciacompany.com/dei-strategy-assessment