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Why do employers need affinity groups? #AffinityGroups or #EmployeeResourceGroups (ERGs) give underrepresented workers a powerful voice and foster workplace belonging. They create a safe space for employees who share a commonality (e.g., race, ethnicity, sexuality, gender identity, religion, etc.) to meet regularly, build community, and discuss any concerns. #ERGs are a fertile ground for the organization’s future leaders. Members of these groups produce innovative solutions to culturally sensitive topics, and these solutions benefit the entire company. Though these problem solvers might be working on a niche concern, their skills can be capitalized for other projects throughout the company. What’s unique about ERGs is that, despite being employer-recognized, they’re employee-led. So, participating workers are free to discuss topics that are most relevant to them, and they can create solutions that aren’t influenced by the C-suite. ERGs may not be the only way to tackle DEI, but they go a long way toward jumpstarting progress. If your organization doesn’t have any, some introspection is necessary to figure out why certain voices are elevated while others are silenced or ignored. After, take the time to chat with employees and find out which groups feel most underrepresented. Once the target groups have been identified, it’s important to establish clear missions for each group and determine how they’ll meet. You’ll also need executive buy-in. For ERGs to be fully supported and have their solutions taken seriously, everyone must understand their purpose, from the top down. ERGs can do what so many other diversity-focused initiatives can’t. They just need the backing of the organization and the space to do their work. #DEI #Inclusion #WorkplaceCulture

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