The last few years have seen some significant strides being made by companies when it comes to their diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). However, there are still some companies that are really not quite sure of what they are doing and what is required.
Every single individual has the chance to play their part, which means learning all there is to know about DEI and helping to be a part of the changes. With this in mind, here are some things you may want to consider along the way.
DEI and best practices
Through every aspect of DEI, there are a number of different best practices. If you are looking to create a more inclusive workforce then it is important as a company that you look to invest in sponsorship and mentorship; two of the most successful interventions when it comes to inclusion. However, if you want to make the idea of belonging your first priority, then you need to look at how you might interrupt microaggressions.
The biggest bias that people actually face is the one that comes from a tendency to prefer those who have a similar personality, background or even professional traits. It’s a part of who we are but something that we can work on changing and something that companies can incorporate into their hiring and recruiting processes.
Create a DIBs strategy for your company
DIBs, or Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging, is very much the same as DEI and means looking at how you can connect the work of your team into a broader DEI strategy. This is your time to really use some of the people skills you will have explored during training for PMs and take a look at how you can make sure that a voice is given to everyone in the room. This should be done whilst also looking at the needs of the project team and their diversities. It doesn’t matter what your position is within an organisation learning the practical steps that will help you see how ready your company is to create its own DEI strategy is the essential first step.
Move DEI from the point of intention to impact
It is just as important to understand what you should not be doing as it is to understand the things that you should be doing. As a project manager, it is important that you are a part of creating an environment within the workplace that is inclusive, and this means considering the things that might be missing. Once you have found those things that are missing the next step is working on finding ways in which they can be included. Go from the intention of correcting these issues to the point where the impact will be felt.
Make every voice count
As any company or project team move towards being more inclusive and diverse, it is essential for everyone to make sure that their voice counts. Courses for professional project managers will help you find ways in which you can assist your team in finding their voices. Communication is, of course, the key here and as the team leader, it is important to make sure that you are listening to everyone’s view point. Sometimes, the best solutions can come from the person you least expect them from.
