Communication is all about establishing human connections— from enabling people to grow, get inspired, and contribute wholeheartedly to an organization’s growth story. Apart from conveying the necessary information or providing access to resources, communication binds the different teams in an organization. Therefore, communication is the fulcrum for diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
Here are four ways in which communication complements DEI initiatives:
Fosters empathy: A significant aspect of well-intended DEI goals is empathy. It can be stressed time and again through empathetic communication. Empathy involves sharing and allowing others to share their actual perspectives without the fear of being judged. The form also comprises active listening, a key component of listening for leaders.
Serves as a bridge: Inclusion is essential to ensure that different teams do not function in silos. Connectedness can be achieved through communication that brings all on the same page through constant conveyances of ideas, thoughts, and actions. Communication is the necessary catalyst, which drives the environment that enables the development of creative ideas, and problem-solving attitudes, apart from supporting the human touch of care and affection.
Creates culture: If a culture has to transform and the organization’s journey has to progress towards becoming more inclusive, there is a constant need to drive messages around them. Communication has to be continuous, consistent, and clear for the employees to act and respond suitably. The behavioral and attitudinal changes follow when they see the clear intent at all levels. Be it a reluctant lot of workers or the enthused group that is keen to respond, communication is an essential catalyst to move the needle.
Builds process: Real action for DEI needs to be measured, and initiatives have to be reassessed time and again. For these, processes and mechanisms are important. They ensure that the DEI goals are supported and enforced at all times– from introducing them or reiterating their significance —communication plays a pivotal role. Take the case of providing feedback; conveying how feedback helps shape and realign DEI goals can enable employees to participate and contribute wholeheartedly.
When employees understand how they play a significant part in the initiatives, there is a positive impact on their sense of belonging.
