Читать книгу UNBIAS - Stacey A. Gordon - Страница 7

The number one question I am always asked when it comes to diversity and inclusion initiatives is “How will we know we're doing the right thing?” I have been asked several versions of this question in podcasts, at conferences, on panels, by CEOs, during a fireside chat, and in educational workshops by employees.

No one wants to get this wrong. Or at least, from what I have seen, no one wants to appear as if they don't care. However, the difference between whether you actually care or whether you care more about the appearance of seeming to care makes all the difference to your success.

The first question I ask company leaders when I am tasked with advising them on their next steps is “What is your strategy?” Unfortunately, it is no longer surprising that they answer all too frequently, “We don't know.”

My goal is to answer both “How do we do this right?” and “What is your strategy?” because the answers to both of these questions are related.

The concept of diversity is difficult because there isn't a one‐size‐fits‐all solution. What works for one company will not work for another. Companies like Ben & Jerry's are being applauded for their statements, their social media presence, and their loyal customer following, and business leaders want to be that company, but aren't willing to do the work it takes to get there. Instead, there is a belief that diversity is minimal, and inclusion is elusive. Business leaders make excuses and use them as a shield to absolve them of their duty as leaders to do the work.