Leading an ERG changed my life and it can change yours too - Here's how..
Stepping up to lead an Employee Resource Group (ERG) was transformative for me. Both in companies and now running iCAN: The Insurance Cultural Awareness Network
If you're considering taking a similar leap, here’s how it might change your life..
1 - Discovering my voice - Before leading an ERG, I was often sitting on opinions I wanted to say, and rooms I wanted to speak in. Now, I confidently advocate for change, ensuring voices, including my own, are heard.
2 - Building lifelong connections - This one is a biggie! The relationships forged within ERGs are profound. I've met mentors, allies, and friends, who have been instrumental in my personal and professional journey. Especially the squad in the pictue below!
3 - Enhanced self-awareness - Engaging with diverse groups has made me introspective. I understood my biases, values, and became a more empathetic individual. Kishan Mangat and I have really gone on a journey here!
4 - Learning to adapt - ERGs come with their set of challenges. Leading them taught me to be adaptable, innovative, and always on my toes.
5 - A sense of purpose - Working towards a greater good - Inclusion, diversity, and equal opportunities – gave a renewed sense of purpose to my daily tasks.
6 - Visibility and opportunities - Being at the forefront of an ERG increased my visibility within my organisation, leading to exciting opportunities, and leading a cross-industry network, well that has led to me being in the position I am in today! My teams have fully understood this one!
7 - Resilience through challenges - Every hurdle faced and overcome as an ERG leader added to my resilience and tenacity.
To anyone contemplating leading an ERG, It’s more than just a role; it's a life-changing experience.
And while the journey has its challenges, the growth, connections, and impact you’ll make are incomparable. The answer is yes, and go for it hard!
Shout out to the A Squad in the photo Felix Wong, Bal Mahil, Natalia Zurowski ACIM, Gerel Rentsenpurev MSc, Gareth Mutema Cert CII, Echaunti Swan, Jimmy Kumar, Kishan Mangat, Arit Amana LLB LLM FCIS/FCG, Kate Gardner and superhero Yasmin Carter-Esdale Dip CII who I know will all agee massively with this post!
#ERGs #leadership #resiliance #opportunities
Graduate Underwriter
1moFantastic role, great way to start a career in insurance!