Beyond DEI Training: Creating Lasting Change in Your Workplace

Attention all business owners and decision-makers! If you think investing in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training is enough to create a truly inclusive workplace, think again! In this article, we'll dive into why DEI training falls short and what you can do to make sure your workplace is truly inclusive.

Firstly, DEI training is often a one-time event that lacks follow-up and can feel performative. While it may provide basic knowledge and skills, it does not necessarily lead to meaningful behavioral change. Employees may leave feeling inspired but forget what they learned or fail to apply it in their work. To create lasting change, we need to prioritize DEI in all aspects of our businesses.

Secondly, DEI training often only focuses on surface-level issues such as unconscious bias or cultural sensitivity. This approach fails to address systemic inequalities that exist within the organization. We need to assess our policies, practices, and culture to identify areas where inequality may exist and implement new policies and practices that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Thirdly, one-size-fits-all DEI training does not acknowledge each employee's unique experiences and perspectives. We need to create a system of ongoing support that provides the resources employees need to create a more inclusive workplace. This could include mentoring, coaching, or affinity groups.

To create a truly inclusive workplace, we must prioritize DEI by integrating DEI principles into our company's values, goals, and strategies. We also need to foster a culture of accountability by setting clear expectations and consequences for behavior that goes against our DEI values.

In conclusion, DEI training is an important first step but not enough. To create lasting change, we need to prioritize DEI in all aspects of our businesses, address systemic inequalities, provide ongoing support, and foster a culture of accountability. Let's create a workplace where all employees feel valued, respected, and included. As a leader, it's up to you to make this happen. Juneteenth is just around the corner. What are you doing to ensure your team knows you are focused on Inclusion and Belonging?

Reach out if you would like my support.

Sincerely,

Scharrell

Your Leadership Coach