Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) have become central to the modern workplace. Companies that
prioritize DEI not only foster a more inclusive and equitable work environment but also tend to perform
better in the long run. However, simply claiming to be DEI-focused is not enough. To truly ensure that
your organization is walking the talk, you need to take concrete steps to verify its commitment. In this
article, we’ll explore how to check if your company is genuinely DEI-focused.
1. Examine the Leadership Team
One of the most telling signs of a DEI-focused company is the composition of its leadership team. Check
whether your company’s executives represent a diverse range of backgrounds, including gender,
ethnicity, and age. If the leadership team lacks diversity, it may be an indication that DEI initiatives are
not a priority.
2. Review DEI Policies and Practices
Scrutinize your company’s policies and practices related to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Ensure they
are comprehensive and transparent. Look for evidence of programs designed to increase diversity and
promote equity, such as recruitment and promotion practices that actively encourage underrepresented
groups to apply for opportunities.
3. Assess Equal Pay and Benefits
DEI isn’t just about hiring diverse candidates; it also involves ensuring equal pay and benefits for all
employees. Check if your organization conducts regular pay equity analyses and offers competitive
benefits that cater to the needs of all employees.
4. Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
Employee Resource Groups, or ERGs, can be a powerful indicator of a company’s commitment to DEI.
These groups provide a platform for employees to connect and advocate for various aspects of diversity,
such as LGBTQ+ rights, gender equality, and racial justice. If your company has active ERGs, it’s a positive
sign.
5. Training and Development
Check if your organization provides ongoing DEI training and development opportunities. These
programs should be accessible to all employees and focus on raising awareness about biases and
fostering inclusivity. Mandatory training can be a sign that your company is taking DEI seriously.
6. Inclusive Company Culture
Assess the company culture to see if it promotes inclusivity. This includes examining everyday
interactions, communication channels, and collaboration among employees. A truly DEI-focused
company will have a culture that respects and values diversity, encourages open dialogue, and
discourages discrimination or microaggressions.
7. DEI Metrics and Reporting
Look for transparency in how your company measures and reports its DEI progress. Regularly published
reports on diversity, equity, and inclusion metrics, including workforce composition, promotion rates,
and pay equity, demonstrate a commitment to accountability and improvement in these areas.
8. Employee Feedback
Collect feedback from employees through surveys or focus groups to understand their experiences with
DEI at your organization. Honest employee input can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of
your company’s DEI efforts.
9. Community Engagement
Examine your company’s involvement in the community and its commitment to social responsibility.
Engaging with external organizations or initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion is a positive sign
that your company genuinely cares about these issues.
10. Consistency and Long-Term Commitment
Lastly, check for the consistency and long-term commitment to DEI. A company that is genuinely DEI-
focused will prioritize these efforts year after year, rather than just reacting to current trends or crises.
In the quest for authentic Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) commitment, it’s essential for companies
to take concrete steps to ensure that their initiatives are not merely lip service. While evaluating your
organization’s DEI focus, we urge you to consider partnering with Empowers Staffing. Our professionals
are all DEI certified, and we champion DEI by eliminating unconscious bias in the hiring process. By
working with Empowers Staffing, you can tap into a wealth of expertise and resources dedicated to
creating a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace, where every individual is valued and
empowered. Together, we can create a better future for your company and society as a whole.
