While there are many types of D&I (or DEI) instructional programs, there are several basics that you should be familiar with. These instructionals can be based on pre-designed courses, video clips, or a combination of both. Most importantly, though, they should be voluntary.
It is important to remember that many people do not like to be forced to take part in these programs. That being said, you should strive to create an overall approach to the concept of diversity and inclusion (D&I) or diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within your company.
Gamification
The basics of gamification are the same as those of traditional corporate training. Incorporate game mechanics into your instructions to make learning more fun and immersive, something you can learn more about if you click here. By using virtual games, employees can practice new skills and understand organizational standards while having fun. The best gamification tools integrate learning with real-world rewards.
The first step in using gamification is to understand the psychology behind it. Gamification programs engage employees through competition and teamwork. They can also encourage teams to collaborate and innovate. Gamification programs are most effective when they are designed well. Without a clear understanding of the end goal, participants may quickly tire of the game or run out of tasks.
Centering Employees
One of the basic foundations of diversity equity and inclusion is education. Training employees about how to engage with the diversity of their workforce helps them understand how differences can shape their interactions. By focusing on how differences are experienced by others, instructions can help them understand how to work together effectively and with sensitivity.
Inclusion instructions can be taught to all employees through various methods, including in-person instructions and webinars. Mobile learning is also an option, as are micro-learning courses. Training should be engaging, while still ensuring that the information is easily accessible and easy to understand.
Recognizing Their Experiences
Employees can be a very important resource for diversity and inclusion instruction. Not only do they work in the company, but they also have a lot of insight into what the company’s culture really is. The more you recognize the experiences of employees of diverse backgrounds, the more likely they are to feel valued and belong in the organization.
When conducting training for employees of diverse backgrounds, start by identifying the challenges and opportunities for inclusion. When evaluating the effectiveness of diversity instructions, consider the following points. If your employees aren’t aware of how their backgrounds can affect the company’s success, consider conducting a separate session for them.
Identifying Unconscious Biases
In this course, participants identify their own biases (otherwise known as Implicit Stereotypes) and develop strategies to address them. The instruction also teaches how to avoid and mitigate microaggressions. Participants are asked to identify groups in which they may have unconsciously discriminated against members of these groups. This can help them become allies and advocates in their professional environments.
Despite efforts to make inclusion a priority in organizations, the practice often leads to backlash. The training unintentionally excludes members of majority groups, resulting in a disproportionate impact on the outcomes. Fortunately, some organizations have begun to focus on inclusion as an essential skill that is necessary for effective leadership.
It is important to understand unconscious bias as it is often more prevalent than conscious prejudice. Oftentimes, unconscious attitudes or beliefs are incompatible with the values and beliefs of an individual. They can be activated by certain scenarios, such as being multitasking or being under time pressure. Even though unconscious bias can be irrational, it can still negatively impact the workplace.
Creating a Sense of Belonging
Feeling a sense of belonging is an important part of any company’s culture. When employees feel that their contribution is valued, they are more likely to work hard and perform better. By developing a culture that fosters diversity and inclusion, you will create a psychologically safe environment that allows employees to be themselves and make valuable contributions.
Creating a sense of belonging is not just about creating a welcoming environment. Studies show that employees are more engaged and productive when they feel they belong to a culture (https://hbr.org). This is true for both their health and the well-being of their workplaces. When people feel like they’re part of a diverse and inclusive workplace, they’re more likely to participate in work and give their time to the culture of the organization.
Diversity is a broad concept. Beyond race and gender, it includes age, sexual orientation, political views, and work styles. Millennials take diversity a step further and consider the perspectives and experiences of different people. A diverse workforce improves the business as a whole, and a culture of diversity and inclusion fosters greater productivity. This is especially true when it is reflected in the work culture.