Companies are prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) as never before, talking about it publicly, making strategic hires, and putting metrics in place to track progress. And yet, according to in-depth interviews and focus groups we conducted over the past several months, many are still struggling to create environments in which Black professionals feel they can thrive. As these organizations find themselves losing valued talent — or failing to recruit it — especially during this period of post-pandemic job change, managers are wondering: What are we doing wrong?
What Do Black Executives Really Want?
As more and more companies commit to investing in diversity, equity, and inclusion, Black employees still report feeling isolated, unable to be authentic, and struggling with confidence.
November 18, 2021
kkgas/Stocksy
Summary.
Recruiting and retaining Black talent is a priority for many organizations. Most are committed to and investing in diversity, equity, and inclusion. And yet, according to interviews and focus groups with Black executives working in a variety of blue-chip companies with strong DEI programs, very few feel good about their workplace experiences at work. They feel isolated, unable to be authentic, and less confident. How can employers and individual managers? By ensuring that Black employees feel safe, seen and supported. This article outlines some concrete ways to make that happen.