Performative DEI Statements Won’t Cut It

Yes.. and?

How many of us have seen these types of statements made over the last few months? Especially if a news story is released where the actions of said organization do not align with these words? I’ve often said, if employees risk going to the media to tell the story, it’s more likely to be more accurate than what the company account will be.

Don’t let PR get you set up for a huge embarrassment. Folks are not falling for the spin anymore.

Additionally, if you are tying ‘diversity’ to just your ‘workforce,’ you have a much bigger problem than a few strategically planned messages coming from the top.

DEI (and any iteration thereof) is about more than butts in seats. It’s about how they are treated before, during, and after they are there. It’s how you deliver more inclusive services and offerings to clients. It’s how you impact the communities that you serve and beyond. It’s about shifting to ensure no one is left out of the picture. It’s about your company culture; not what you say your culture is.

If done correctly, you will see an increase in the bottom line. You will save resources because you focus on your people as people and not cogs in a wheel.

Your organization will be better when you do better.

And this ain’t it.