Takeaways
What Is Your Takeaway ?
Did a story inside this issue of EVOLVE spark a new idea ? The editors and writers aim to provide readers like you - Chamber and community members - compelling relevant content that informs and inspires you . What is your takeaway this issue ? We ’ d love to hear from you .
Best Practices
So , how does inclusion happen in great organizations ? Not easily . It is a journey that requires intentional thought and action . Recognized best practices in achieving an inclusive corporate culture include :
Make it personal . CEOs and leaders , who take diversity and inclusion personally , instill that same commitment into their leadership and employees . It isn ’ t about an initiative ; it is about a way of life .
Measure . The old saying about “ what gets measured gets done ” holds true in Diversity and Inclusion , as well . If it is important to an organization , measurement and continual improvement are necessary .
Hold leaders accountable . Make sure leaders in the organization understand their role in achieving results . Make it a part of their overall management review . Tie results to their compensation . ( Money does talk .) Encourage great role models – developing and promoting diversity , supporting diverse resource groups and recruiting diverse candidates .
Recruit diversity . The more you recruit it , the more opportunities there are to increase an organization ’ s diversity . Candidates want to see people who have achieved and who look like them .
Educate and train . Understanding other cultures doesn ’ t just happen . A course in Unconscious Bias demonstrates that everyone has biases . Once we recognize that , it is easier to think and do something about it .
Make the Chief Diversity Officer position count . Make them an integral part of the leadership team with responsibilities , demonstrating their impact top and bottom line performance – because they do .
Diversity and inclusion create better organizations – with strong financials , talent , customer service , innovation , market share and more . It takes leaders committed to creating a diverse organization who require others to follow their lead . It may be a challenge , but diversity and inclusion do matter .
Share your comments and insights by emailing Editor @ EvolveDaytona . com .
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Terri L . Quinton is CEO and President of Q2 Marketing Group , an award-winning marketing and business development firm servicing small and mid-sized firms . She has been recognized with numerous awards for her work and commitment to diversity and inclusion , including recent induction into the Women ’ s Business Enterprise Hall of Fame .
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