Good afternoon,
Did you hear about it? About Google? Earlier this weekend, The Guardian reported about the giant's diversity practices, and it was not positive.
Researcher Timnit Gebru expressed frustration at Google’s diversity programs through an internal memo. She pointed out that the company's goals on diversity, equity and inclusion objectives are never met and that the focus is too much on 'more mentorship' and not enough on 'stopping the toxic environments that hinder us from progressing'.
In other words: don't fix the people, fix the culture.
She also argued that “there is zero accountability” or real incentive for Google leadership to change. Your life gets worse when you start advocating for underrepresented people, you start making the other leaders upset,” Gebru wrote. “There is no way more documents or more conversations will achieve anything.” (read the full article here)
📍 How accountable are you?
Many companies and leaders have good intentions but struggle with bringing inclusive culture to the everyday work experience. Every time I support them in creating more awareness, develop tactics for change and actively train leaders and team members, the journey is full of challenges.That’s because it’s ultimately about changing your behaviour. Every day. Any successful journey to more inclusion will have both tactics to empower individuals, such as sponsoring/mentoring programs AND an active change of culture that is measured.
📍I need your help
As you know, I believe we need to share knowledge about creating inclusive company cultures. I have been working on an #inclusiveleadership paper gathering ways and incentives to move from being passive leaders to becoming active changemakers. The tactics that work for others, might work for you. That's the basis of my approach in every D&I Journey I support. If you want to learn more, feel free to attend my next free webinar.
What are your thoughts or experiences on the topic?
Please let me know what works for you. Together, we can make a real difference.
Elke Jeurissen
Inclusive Leadership expert
welcome@elkejeurissen.com
+32.476.505454
P.S.: Discover other inspiration to support your journey to a more inclusive workplace here.