In a business world filled with acronyms, three letters have become increasingly important. The most comprehensive corporate sustainability programs now include a strong Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) component.
But not every organization is realizing the full benefits of a clearly articulated DEI initiative. In fact, recent research suggests nearly 76% of companies still lack specific diversity and inclusion goals. For those companies—and perhaps yours—the long-term benefits of establishing and communicating DEI commitments should not be ignored.
Doing the right thing for the right reasons? Check.
DEI reporting is about more than just checking a box or going through the motions. Organizations that have successfully established and communicated their DEI commitments understand that stakeholders want clarity about the “why” of DEI.
“Now more than ever, it is critical that organizations bring innovative and diverse perspectives to company challenges,”
“Now more than ever, it is critical that organizations bring innovative and diverse perspectives to company challenges like sustainability through programs like DEI,” according to Brian Nash, VP of sustainability at Ingredion. “Equally important is making sure those efforts are trustworthy by basing them on external standards or internal programs aligned with those standards.”
Asking the tough questions, finding the best resources.
Wherever your organization is on your sustainability journey, it’s worth considering the following questions:
To assess progress on your DEI journey, don’t hesitate to employ readily available third-party tools, such as the Intercultural Development Inventory. “The IDI is a valuable tool to enhance strengths and assess opportunities on how best to interact with people from different backgrounds, cultures and countries,” according to Sherri Dublin, VP of DEI, Culture, Engagement and Communications at Ingredion.
As with anything, though, time and resources may not always be on your side when trying to answer all the questions above. Which is why it helps to find a partner who is.
We have, we can, we will.
At C.O.nxt, we believe in weaving Diversity, Equity and Inclusion commitments into who we are as a company and how we go about our business each day. In other words, we’re on this journey together with you. In fact, we’re currently going through extensive IDI training ourselves. Along the way, we’ve also had the privilege of helping leading organizations create DEI reports as part of their overall sustainability initiatives.
Our team of subject matter experts focuses on food and agriculture—farm field to processing to entrée on a plate. We can help you build a new brand, protect an old one or target customers to foster sales. Let’s talk when the time is right to handle your next strategic marketing and communications challenge: Marcy Tessmann, marcy@co-nxt.com.
C.O.nxt Insight.
Our team of subject matter experts focuses on food and agriculture—farm field to processing to entrée on a plate. We can help you build a new brand, protect an old one or target customers to foster sales. Let’s talk when the time is right to handle your next strategic marketing and communications challenge: Marcy Tessmann, marcy@co-nxt.com.
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