Plexus Education Foundation Presents
Starting & Scaling your Employee Resource Group
Description
Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) are crucial components of a diverse and inclusive workplace culture. However, launching and sustaining an ERG requires more than just good intentions; it demands strategic planning, clear objectives, and effective execution. This comprehensive training program is designed to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to initiate and expand successful ERGs within their organizations.
This session can be tailored for organizations that are considering implementing an ERG, ERG's who are up and running but need support on expanding, or ERG's ready to develop leaders for succession and sustainability.
Objectives
- Understand the benefits of ERG to the workplace and employees.
- Learn the various aspects and foundational needs to starting an ERG (i.e. support, budget, communication).
- Discover strategies for attracting diverse membership and fostering active participation within the ERG.
- Explore strategies for scaling ERGs effectively.
- Discuss how to develop ERG leaders for sustainability.
Components
- Understanding the Purpose and Benefits of ERGs: Participants will grasp the significance of ERGs in fostering diversity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace. They will explore the various ways ERGs contribute to organizational success and employee engagement.
- Planning and Establishing ERGs: Participants will learn the essential steps involved in launching an ERG, including defining its mission and goals, identifying potential members, establishing leadership structures, and securing support from key stakeholders.
- Building a Strong Foundation: This segment will focus on laying the groundwork for a sustainable ERG, covering topics such as developing a charter, creating effective communication channels, setting up regular meetings, and establishing accountability mechanisms.
- Engaging Members and Driving Participation: Participants will discover strategies for attracting diverse membership and fostering active participation within the ERG. They will learn how to leverage various engagement tactics, including events, workshops, mentorship programs, and networking opportunities.
- Leveraging ERGs for Organizational Impact: This module will explore ways to align ERG activities with broader organizational objectives, such as talent development, recruitment, retention, and community outreach. Participants will understand how ERGs can serve as valuable resources for driving positive change within the company.
- Scaling and Sustaining ERGs: As ERGs evolve, maintaining momentum and relevance becomes critical. Participants will explore strategies for scaling ERGs effectively, expanding their reach across different departments or locations, and ensuring long-term sustainability.
- Measuring Success and Impact: Finally, participants will delve into methods for evaluating the effectiveness and impact of ERGs. They will learn how to define meaningful metrics, collect relevant data, and use insights to continually improve ERG initiatives.
Recommended Reading
Gainsburg, J. (2023). The Savvy Ally: A Guide for Becoming a Skilled LGBTQ+ Advocate. Rowman & Littlefield Publishers.
Hall, D. M. (2009). Allies at Work: Creating a Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Inclusive Work Environment. Out & Equal Workplace Advocates.
Nayani, F. (2022). The Power of Employee Resource Groups: How People Create Authentic Change. Berrett-Koehler Publishers.
Shane, K. (2021). Creating an LGBT+ Inclusive Workplace. Routledge.
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