DEI Strategies
Where do you start with driving diversity?
Data analytics and metrics
Measure 1) firmwide; 2) attrition; 3) new hires; 4) candidates
Define bias.
A bias is an inflexible, positive or negative, often unconscious belief about a particular category of people.
Define allyship.
A longterm process of relationship building and speaking up for underrepresented individuals.
What could go wrong with hiring a D&I officer?
No real authority. No budget. No direct line to the CEO. All programs.
What is emotional intelligence?
Understanding and managing your reactions and emotions; showing empathy
How do you recruit for diversity?
Intentionality. Examine where you recruit, who does the recruiting, what are they asking.
DAILY DOUBLE: Circle of Trust Activity
Take out a piece of scratch paper for this exercise.
Who are the characters in every allyship situation?
The Source. The Affected Person. The Ally.
Are awards/certifications ever a bad thing?
It depends.
What is imposter syndrome?
Doubting your abilities and feeling like a fraud
What is cultural competency?
Understanding, appreciating and respecting the values, beliefs and history of people from various backgrounds
What is opportunity hoarding?
Assisting people in your circle. It is applauded in most social groups. People who help others in their social networks in this way gain social standing and good will.
DAILY DOUBLE: How does an ally respond?
You're much better; Didn't get it; Ouch; I feel...because; We don't do that here
What leads to DEI backlash?
Focusing on people and not systems. Remember 20-60-20.
Define psychological safety.
Belief that you will be punished or humiliated for speaking up.
What is inclusion and how do you measure it?
This is a qualitative measure of how people feel (voices heard, opinions respected, reflected, engaged). Engagement surveys are the tool for this.
What are microaggressions?
Everyday insults, indignities and demeaning messages sent to underrepresented individuals who are often oblivious to the offensive nature of their words or actions.
What's the worst way to respond as an ally?
Barreling into a situation uninformed.
Should DEI be on the offense or defense?
Be proactive wherever possible to prevent being performative.
What is intersectionality?
Overlapping identities.
How do you create sustainable change?
You embed DEI in your policies.
How do you disarm a microaggression?
Retreat. Strike back. Enlist an ally. Educate. Diminish. Validate. Seek org help.
Does the affected person want your help in every situation?
No. You need to assess the impact on/desire of the affected person.
Is it acceptable to discuss "privilege" in the workplace?
Define it. Own it.
Define "diverse/diversity."
A person cannot be diverse.