Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Use Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Strategies to Build a Brand that Resonates

Jobseekers, employees, and consumers are becoming more values-driven and are increasingly prioritizing organizations with strong commitments to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). This means organizations must rethink how they fit into the social fabric and how they promote DEI within their workforce and beyond.

• Jobseekers ,  particularly those from underrepresented groups, seek workplaces where they can bring their whole selves, be heard, and have opportunities for growth. A strong DEI program can attract a more diverse pool of qualified candidates.
• Employees  value an inclusive work environment where they feel respected, supported, and have equal opportunities. Strong DEI initiatives promote fairness, reduce bias and discrimination, and foster a sense of belonging which leads to increased engagement, productivity, and retention.
• Consumers  look for companies that demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility and make a positive impact on broader societal issues related to DEI.
• Business leaders  increasingly see DEI as a competitive advantage in attracting and building talent and enhancing their business brands.

Nine DEI-related strategies to help build your brand

1. Clearly define your DEI goals:
   Define your organizations’ DEI goals and values. This will serve as the foundation for building your brand and guide your actions and messaging.
2. Assess your current state:
   Conduct an honest assessment of your organization’s current DEI efforts. Identify areas of strength and areas that need improvement. This assessment will help you understand where to focus your efforts and resources.
3. Define and communicate your values:
   Clearly articulate your organization’s commitment to DEI in your mission statement, values, and company culture. Ensure this messaging is consistently conveyed in your employer branding efforts and communication channels.
4. Establish diverse leadership and employee resource groups:
   Encourage and support the formation of employee resource groups (ERGs) that represent various demographic and affinity groups, including intersectional identities. ERGs can give voice to marginalized and underrepresented persons, drive initiatives and provide insight on creating an inclusive environment based on lived experiences.
5. Implement inclusive policies and personnel practices:
   Review your policies and personnel practices to minimize bias and increase diversity. Use diverse interview panels, incorporate blind resume screening, and consider implementing structured interviews and diversity training for hiring managers. 
6. Prioritize diversity in talent acquisition: 
   Actively seek out diverse candidates by partnering with organizations that focus on underrepresented communities, attending diversity job fairs, or utilizing diverse sourcing platforms. Make sure your career pages promote inclusivity. Also evaluate the diversity of your talent acquisition team. A diverse team of different races, genders, ethnicities, abilities, and orientations can help to ensure fair and objective selection processes.
7. Invest in diversity training and education:
   Provide comprehensive training on unconscious bias, inclusive communication, and cultural competence to all employees. Offer ongoing educational opportunities to enhance awareness and understanding of DEI topics.
8. Foster an inclusive workplace culture:
   Create an environment where all employees feel valued, respected, and included. Encourage open dialogue, address any instances of discrimination or bias swiftly, and ensure diverse voices are heard and empowered.
9. Measure and share progress:
   Regularly assess the impact of your DEI initiatives through surveys, employee feedback, and key performance indicators. Celebrate milestones and share progress transparently to demonstrate your commitment to building an inclusive brand.

Using DEI to build a brand that resonates with jobseekers, employees, and consumers requires ongoing commitment and continuous improvement. Listen to the experiences and feedback of your target audiences to ensure your DEI efforts are effective.

Collaborate with a Consultant to Advance Your Organization’s DEI Potential

With more than 35 years of experience in workforce analytics, Berkshire Associate’s approach to DEI is both highly data-driven and informed by decades of collaborative consulting.

Through careful analysis of your data, Berkshire can help your organization see its diversity history, its present, and craft a path for the future. Berkshire’s experienced consultants will help identify DEI Solutions, including specific actions your organization can take to realize your goals and monitor your progress as your DEI partner.