Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives are not new concepts but have become increasingly important to job seekers. Any employer that does not prioritize DEI may struggle to attract and retain top talent. To remove subconscious bias in the recruitment process, companies saw an increase in technology use in 2023. This was seen in the form of phone interviews rather than in-person interviews and reviewing resumes which censored personal information such as names or headshots. Working with a Managed Service Provider (MSP) for staff augmentation allows public-sector organizations access to diverse vendors to bolster DEI initiatives. Discover how DEI initiatives can add lasting benefits to organizations and how these efforts can be amplified with an MSP.
The Importance of Diversity Initiatives
DEI initiatives are intentional and proactive efforts to create a work environment where employees who represent different groups feel valued, respected, and included. These groups can include race, ethnicity, age, and gender. Equity in the workplace signifies all employees are given fair opportunities, essentially, leveling the playing field. Inclusion is the active effort to ensure all employees feel welcome to fully participate, be themselves, and feel a sense of belonging within the company. When hiring a diverse workforce, organizations gain unique perspectives, which generate innovative ideas and solutions to help your company grow. Improving diversity also gives people in marginalized groups the opportunity to grow in the workplace.
Top Benefits of DEI
- Innovation: Employees who feel supported and heard feel empowered to make decisions, generate creative ideas, and perform their jobs well. In return, companies may increase financial performance and discover innovative solutions.
- Engaged Workforce: Employees who feel valued and have opportunities in the workplace are more likely to be actively engaged in their work. This translates to a happier, more productive workforce.
- Positive culture: An inclusive, equitable, and diverse work environment improves company culture by valuing individuals and recognizing their differences. This creates a healthy work environment built on respect.
Implementing DEI Initiatives
To maximize all the benefits of DEI initiatives, companies should implement the four pillars of DEI: Education, Engagement, Empathy, and Expectation.
Education
For effective DEI implementation, all employees need to be on board. Through DEI training programs, employees can learn the importance of diversity, unconscious bias, and cultural competency. Employees should also be well-equipped with a variety of educational resources. This can include articles, workshops, and mentoring opportunities. Individualizing and identifying development opportunities for all employees provides professional growth and meets employees where they currently stand. It is equally important for companies to provide channels for employees to submit feedback on educational resources to continuously improve the DEI initiatives in place.
Engagement
Engagement focuses on involving employees in DEI initiatives. This empowers individuals to take ownership of change and promotes a sense of shared responsibility. These initiatives may include employee resource groups and organized events to celebrate different cultures and identities. A highly engaged workforce is more likely to become advocates for inclusion, share ideas, and work collaboratively to drive positive change.
Empathy
Companies are continuously finding ways to increase empathetic initiatives. According to a survey conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA), 77% of workers reported being satisfied with the support for mental health and well-being they receive from their employers. The APA survey also found that 59% of workers agreed that their employer regularly provides information about available mental health resources. Some common initiatives being implemented across companies include mental health resources, such as employee assistance programs (EAPs), and flexible policies. Flexible work policies recognize and celebrate diverse lifestyles, religious observances, and heritages. It is equally important for companies to encourage open and honest conversations around DEI issues. This creates a safe space for employees to share their experiences and concerns.
Expectation
Expectation, also referred to as accountability, focuses on implementing the DEI goals that have been set in place. To ensure initiatives are properly being met, company leaders should be held accountable for their role in advancing DEI. Through establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) and specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals, progress can be effectively tracked. Company leaders need to clearly define consequences for behaviors that violate DEI principles and ensure that consequences are consistently enforced.
Build a Diverse Workforce with MSPs
MSPs for Staff Augmentation can enhance DEI initiatives at every stage in the recruitment process. MSPs provide diverse vendors the opportunity to succeed within the staff augmentation program. The provided diversity allows public sector organizations to explore a range of options to bolster participation from small and diverse staffing vendors. Some MSP companies, like Knowledge Services, provide pre-vetted vendor lists. These lists typically include small and/or minority-owned staffing vendors. Through reviewing current DEI statistics, MSPs can provide vendors that best align with company initiatives. This approach ensures these underrepresented organizations are given a fair chance alongside their larger competitors. The vendors who incorporate DEI efforts into their process will likely see an increase in business as it provides a competitive advantage and opens opportunities to a wider talent pool.
For every new hire, it is critical to offer equitable salaries, benefits that cater to diverse needs, and extensive onboarding to ensure all employees feel welcomed and integrated. Designing a mentorship program for new employees allows for learning opportunities around company culture and allows employees to network with new coworkers.
Amplify DEI Initiatives Today
DEI initiatives are essential components of any company from an ethical perspective and as a strategic business advantage. Companies need to encourage conversations around DEI initiatives and anonymously survey staff on these efforts. By partnering with an MSP that prioritizes DEI, organizations can expand their talent pool by gaining access to diverse vendors. As businesses continue to prioritize DEI, they not only support underrepresented groups in the workforce but also foster environments where all employees can thrive and contribute to the company’s success.
