Invest in a culture of belonging and diverse representation - The sense of disconnection people have had at their workplaces post covid, continues even today. Invest in rebuilding connections, reiterating your inclusion values via a strong people experience and engagement strategy. DEI, when intentional, can play a crucial role in building a sense of belonging and will drive collective ownership. When under-represented and marginalized individuals witness greater representation akin to their own, it fosters a sense of safety and a signal of a supportive community that will stand by their side as true allies. Representation is a powerful means of affirming diverse identities and experiences and investing in this is key as part of your talent acquisition strategy.

Jugaad innovation in DEI - Budgets are cut, but don’t let that define your DEI success."Jugaad innovation" calls for a frugal and flexible approach to problem-solving, often using limited resources to create innovative solutions. In the context of DEI today, applying jugaad innovation means finding creative and resourceful ways to address diversity challenges, running your programs and fostering an inclusive environment. Be agile, responsive and leverage your people to drive DEI using existing resources and embracing a mindset of continuous improvement.

Effectively integrate leadership KRA with DEI success metrics - Incorporate DEI success metrics into your leadership teams’ key result areas (KRAs) by embedding specific DEI metrics that are measurable. Leaders should visibly contribute and champion DEI priorities making it an integral part of their responsibilities and performance assessments. Ensure leaders are supported via DEI training, reverse mentoring etc. This will further embed DEI in your organization's culture.

ESG is the future and here to stay - With the focus on environmental, social, and governance issues taking center stage, the ability to hire, retain, and grow your diverse talent with inclusive practices will not only align with ESG principles but also contribute to a positive brand image. Employee well being, flexible work solutions, career development, representation in leadership and accessibility are some crucial areas for success.

Leverage the power of authentic dialogue to empathy circles - To get real about DEI create safe spaces to share lived experiences, to be vulnerable, acknowledge privilege and foster authentic dialogue. This is a low cost strategy and when helmed by leaders can serve as a catalyst for positive social change and wider community engagement.