5 Things / Sponsors
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This week, I had a catch-up call with a client's Employee Resource Group leader. We discussed our next steps in working together, and towards the end of the conversation, I asked if there was anything else I could assist with. They shared that, after four years in leadership, they were feeling a bit burnt out, and the distributed ERG members were becoming increasingly disengaged. I suggested that they lean more on their Executive Sponsor.
Many ERGs are fortunate to have Executive Sponsors, but I've noticed that many of our clients don't fully leverage these sponsors for maximum benefit. These sponsors are here to help. As humans, we like to be asked for advice and assistance because it boosts our self-esteem. Furthermore, the reality is that your ERG members are more likely to attend an event if they know the sponsor will be present. Here are some ideas to create a "room where it happens": a listening session, a collaborative planning meeting, an out-in-the-workplace panel or discussion, a speed mentoring session, or any other activity that aligns with your organization's goals.
These types of events can create a win-win situation by increasing engagement from both the sponsor and your ERG members. Our client, Ferrara, excels in this regard. In fact, Natasha Miller Williams, their VP of DEI, recently wrote about this on LinkedIn and shared in Forbes: "The C-Suite Needs to Get Involved in Organizations' ERG Efforts." At Ferrara, every ERG has a listening session with the CEO. That's a strong commitment, and I can attest from experience that Ferrara's ERGs are highly engaged. A good vibe, indeed.
Here Are This Week's Good Vibes:
Revised Blood Donation Policies for Gay and Bisexual Men in the US: A Step Forward
The FDA and the Red Cross have recently revised their policies regarding blood donation from gay and bisexual men in the US. Previously banned since the mid-1980s due to concerns about HIV, the updated guidelines now permit gay and bisexual men to donate blood if they have been in a monogamous relationship for the past three months. I share the opinion of those who argue that these guidelines do not go far enough, especially given the advancements in HIV testing, and that questions related to behavior should be eliminated altogether. Nevertheless, the change in policy is expected to increase the blood supply by approximately 4%, potentially saving over 1.6 million lives.
Room & Board's Innovative Approach: An Indoor Pickleball Court Promoting Fun and Productivity
Minneapolis-based furniture retailer Room & Board has an indoor pickleball court at its office. The company encourages its employees to use the court, emphasizing the importance of blending work and fun while providing space and tools for employees to de-stress. Employees are enjoying this perk, as playing pickleball has not only helped them build stronger relationships but also return to work with increased enthusiasm and productivity. Personally, I'm a big fan of pickleball, so I love this story. While the sport may not be accessible to everyone, I've had the opportunity to play with a diverse range of players, including one in a wheelchair.
Historic Inclusion: Two Transgender Women Compete in the 2023 Miss Universe Pageant
The 2023 Miss Universe pageant will feature at least two transgender women, marking a historic moment for the competition. Marina Machete from Portugal and Rikkie Kollé from the Netherlands will compete in the pageant, with the potential to become the first transgender woman to win the title. The inclusion of transgender contestants reflects a growing trend toward greater diversity and inclusivity in beauty pageants.
The Power of E-Learning in the Workplace: Driving Diversity and Inclusion
E-learning is transforming workplace learning, with LinkedIn's report highlighting its role in diversity and inclusion. Tony Maguire of D2L sees it as crucial for breaking educational barriers. Inclusive eLearning can lead to 228,000 more tertiary qualifications, a $4.5 billion boost in employment and salaries, and a $40 billion market by eliminating barriers. Companies recognize that diversity and inclusion are competitive advantages. E-learning and modern learning management systems play a vital role in fostering an inclusive workplace culture.
Google's Enhanced Accessibility Features Are Empowering Users with Disabilities
Google is expanding its accessibility features, which include wheelchair-accessible walking routes on Google Maps, Live View with screen reader capabilities for blind or low-vision users, and a new identity marker for disabled-owned businesses. These updates aim to make navigation and finding community spaces easier for people with disabilities (over 40 million in the US alone). On devices, Google now allows for customized assistant routines and improved typing assistance for those with dyslexia and language learners. All of this is wonderful, and I especially appreciate that Google worked with members of the disability community to design these features. (H/T to Karen Catlin for this story.)
Call to Action:
If you find yourself continually advocating for inclusion and belonging, I recommend reading "10 Reasons Why Inclusion Is a Competitive Advantage" in the Harvard Business Review (please note that you may need to pay for access). This article provides valuable tips and sound bites that can help you drive DEI initiatives.