Evidence-Based Strategies for Building Inclusive Workplaces

The May Work Smart workshop -- Evidence-Based Strategies for Building Inclusive Workplaces -- was well received by an audience including SIOP members and non-members eager to discover more about how to build more inclusive work environments through the lenses of the human capital lifecycle and a diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) maturity model. The workshop was facilitated by Dr. Meisha-ann Martin (Workhuman) and Dr. Nicholas Salter (Hofstra University) and coordinated by SIOP Work Smart Series Committee members Crystal Turner and Sarah Thomas. Our two expert facilitators joined forces to share their expertise in an interactive workshop that provided practical approaches for recognizing organizational bias and exploring steps that can be taken to foster a more inclusive work environment from both academic and practitioner perspectives.

Salter shared an overview of the current state of DEI, including how the topic is currently being discussed. Martin then provided a deep-dive review into systemic racism in HR, including in workplace structures, such as hiring, performance evaluation, recognition systems, engagement, and parental leave. She proceeded to cover four steps for creating an effective diversity strategy and discussed a diversity maturity model for building an inclusive organization. Salter then presented a case study to the participants, which they worked on in small groups, creating solutions to the issues presented in the case. He closed the exercise by debriefing and sharing his recommendations on the issues. He also presented the topic of allyship and tactics for taking action and being an advocate for others. Next, Martin discussed the “elephants in the room,” namely the societal and political influences on this incredibly important work. Finally, the participants were asked to make commitments based on their learnings from the workshop.

Participant responses to the workshop were overwhelmingly positive. Ninety percent of respondents indicated that the workshop fulfilled its learning objectives, that they learned new concepts, and are motivated to apply what they have learned in their workplace. Some example participant comments include:

• This was a fantastic session! I really enjoyed the real conversations and actionable takeaways.
• The speakers were wonderful - thoughtful, knowledgeable, and engaging.

You can still register to access the workshop recording, all the materials that were shared, and additional resources provided by the speakers on the SIOP Work Smart Series webpage. (Please note that breakout sessions were not recorded). And if you were able to attend, you have continued access to the recording and resources - this is a workshop you will benefit from revisiting!

Thank you to our presenters for so graciously sharing their time and expertise during this dynamic workshop.

For more information about sponsoring this SIOP learning channel, please contact Susan Rogers at srogers@siop.org. If you have questions or ideas for the SIOP Work Smart Series Committee please email WorkSmart@siop.org.

Save the Date:
The next SIOP Work Smart Series virtual workshop, coordinated by Christine Boyce and Jean Stetz-Puchalski, will address Understanding and Evaluating Artificial Intelligence (AI) Solutions and feature experts including Dr. Fred Oswald. It will take place 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. ET Wednesday, August 14. Save the date, watch for more details on the SIOP Work Smart Series webpage, please spread the word to friends and colleagues. You can register even if you can’t attend live; all registrants will have access to the workshop recording and resource pack.