Creating a Climate for Diversity: Tip # 12 – Resource Groups

Start resource groups for underrepresented group members. A resource group is an internal association dedicated to the professional development of a specific cultural group (e.g., LGBT, Asian-Americans and women). These groups provide an excellent networking source for the members and can significantly improve retention within an organization. To make sure your resource groups are successful, keep the following points in mind:

• Identify a clear business purpose for the group. For example, the purpose can be to improve retention and reduce turnover, to enhance diversity recruitment efforts, to facilitate employee development and mentoring, to increase promotional opportunities, or to improve external relationships.
  
• Identify an executive sponsor for the group. This should be an individual in high levels of management with significant organizational influence. Such an individual will be able to provide knowledge, experience, connections and other resources of value to the group.
  
• Welcome all employees to participate in the resource group. While the group may be geared toward a particular underrepresented employee population, everyone should be made to feel welcome.
  
• Evaluate the effectiveness of your resource groups. Bottom-line, do they fulfill their identified purpose?

Next Post: January 27, 2014 – Creating a Climate for Diversity: Tip #13