Promoting an inclusive workplace is now essential for organizations worldwide. As businesses strive to welcome and value talent from diverse backgrounds, they must foster a culture where all employees feel respected and valued. 

At Broadleaf, we have seen DEI initiatives become integral within many of our workforce programs. As a certified WBE through WBENC, we understand the importance of creating opportunities not only for women and minority-owned businesses but also for women and minority candidates. Here are key ways to cultivate inclusive practices for your workforce. 

Supplier Diversity Programs: How to Get Started 

Form a DEI Council with Purpose and Accountability 

The impact of a DEI council lies in its structure and accountability. A successful DEI council should set clear objectives, establish a roadmap for action, and implement a feedback loop to evaluate progress. This council isn’t just a representative body; it’s an empowered one, with the authority to influence policies, recommend structural changes, and ensure DEI initiatives are truly embedded in company culture—not just stated. 

Poll Your Employees—Make Feedback Cyclical 

Employee feedback should be a two-way, cyclical process that demonstrates a genuine commitment to listening and improving. By regularly polling employees and acting on their input, you show that feedback isn’t just collected; it drives meaningful change. When employees see their voices actively shaping the organization, trust and engagement increase. 

Celebrate Cultural Diversity: Shift from Acknowledgment to Immersion 

Celebrating diversity goes beyond marking dates on a calendar. True cultural appreciation involves fostering empathy and understanding within the organization. Take the extra step by offering professional development in cultural competence, equipping employees to navigate diverse interactions with respect and empathy. 

Mentorship: Build Inclusive Networks, Not Mirrors 

A mentorship program should aim to expand perspectives rather than create comfort zones. By pairing employees from different backgrounds, you foster a culture of learning and growth. Through these mentorship opportunities, diverse perspectives are shared and valued, leading to mutual development. 

Anonymous Feedback: Turn Silence into Insight 

Silence can be a powerful call for change. By taking anonymous feedback seriously and transparently sharing the themes and actions taken to address it, you reinforce that every voice matters—whether spoken or silent. Publicly acknowledging this feedback builds credibility and reassures employees that they are heard, even anonymously. 

Spend Time in Your Community 

Volunteering in the community is a valuable way to foster connections, build empathy, and strengthen team bonds. Consider establishing a Volunteer Time Off (VTO) policy, which allows employees to support causes that matter to them while being paid. Not only does VTO bring teams together, but it also enriches your organization with insights about the surrounding cultures and communities. 

Get Executive Stakeholders and Influencers Involved 

For DEI initiatives to succeed, executive involvement is essential. When leaders actively support and promote diversity programs, these efforts resonate more deeply throughout the company. Make sure your organization’s DEI goals are clearly communicated to executive leadership to gain the sponsorship needed for real impact. 

Engage DEI Critics with Empathy and Data 

Turning DEI skeptics into allies requires empathy and data. Meet critics where they are, listening to their concerns while sharing compelling data that bridges gaps in understanding. This balanced approach fosters respect and openness, ultimately building a stronger foundation for your DEI efforts. 

Summary 

As organizations increasingly recognize the importance of DEI, they see benefits not only in talent attraction and retention but also in fostering a more ethical and inclusive workplace. By implementing these strategies with purpose, your organization can create an environment that uplifts all employees and drives lasting positive change. 

Looking to enhance your talent strategies and foster a more flexible approach to workforce management? Check out our latest E-Book, that explores the gig economy and workforce solutions in depth. 

 

This blog was authored by Joseph O’Shea