Hold Leaders Accountable for Their Commitments to Racial Equity

 
Wed 02 June 2021

Hold Leaders Accountable for Their Commitments to Racial Equity

Over the last year, many leaders made promises to fight discrimination and embrace diversity in their work forces, but progress has been inconsistent. So how can you use your influence to ensure your company follows through on its commitments? For starters, you need to identify a core group of colleagues who are similarly motivated to make change. Not only is it more powerful when many people are making the same case, it also makes it more difficult for management to rationalize inaction. Next, you and your group need to determine your objectives and press for firm, measurable goals. 

 

For example, you might push the company to commit to X percent of candidates from underrepresented backgrounds for its job openings. Or, you could pursue process-based outcomes, such as the creation of recruiting events or robust mentorship programs for underrepresented groups. Your goal is to devise metrics that create accountability. As you push for change, remember to also listen. Understanding management’s concerns can help you come up with creative ways to advocate and problem solve.
This tip is adapted from “How to Hold Your Company Accountable to Its Promise of Racial Justice,” by Rebecca Knight