Now more than ever, it is becoming increasingly important to create a workforce and workplace that is culturally inclusive. With that in mind, more and more companies are hiring a DEI consultant.
Today’s Companies and DEI
Does the culture of your organization need to shift in order to fit in with the changing times? Have you created a work environment where a sense of belonging is experienced by all team members? If you feel that you could use a little assistance in this area, effective, experienced DEI consultants training professionals can help.
There areis any number of firms out there, however, so how do you pick just one? You will want to look closely at your organization and try to decide which firm will be a good fit. To make the best decision as to which firm to choose, consider the answers to the following questions.
These questions should act, more or less, as a “how-to” guide as to which inquiries you should make with a prospective DEI consulting firm.
What Is the Consultant’s Social Identity?
To shift the culture of your organization, this topic should be discussed, though it could be challenging. Consider the social identities of your managers, bBoard of dDirectors, employees, leadership, etc. When they are presented with DEI messages, from whom might they be more likely to actually hear and receive them?
What Is Your Organization’s Context and Culture?
Your consultant, to be effective, should inquire as to your company’s comprehension of the following DEI topics:
- Specific problems or issues
- Cultural context
- Cultural practices
- Accommodations or needs for members of your organization who have disabilities
- Any DEI training that has taken place previously, and more
With this information, a consultant will better be more able to assist you and your team members by tailoring your program.
Will the Training Offered Be Voluntary or Required?
Your organization may experience backlash if DEI training sessions or workshops are mandatory. A sense of resentment may be experienced if team members are forced to attend training programs. Be sure that everyone knows the training is voluntary, but firmly encourage it.
>Discuss with your prospective consultant the types of training program selections that will be more likely to benefit your team.
What Other DEI Services Do You Offer?
Apart from training sessions, comprehensive assessments and additional transformation steps may be needed to ensure that your company meets its inclusivity goals. Make sure to discuss with the consultant if such services are offered.
Here at Tessi Consulting, we employ assessments and supportive arrangements like:
- Cultural & equity assessments
- DEI program assessments
- DEI council/committee governance
- Employee resource group optimization
- A fractional chief diversity officer to work alongside your talent and diversity team
- DEI project management, change management, & communications
Are You Looking for Education That’s Proactive or for Compliance?
Either a proactive approach or compliance approach will be taken toon DEI education, depending on your organization’s stress on DEI issues. Will you be encouraging attendance of DEI training sessions because you know it’s the right thing to do in today’s diverse work environment, or because you feel legally bound to provide this type of training for your team members? The first is proactive, and the second is compliance.
Is There a DEI Strategic Plan for Your Organization?
Within your organization, a comprehensive approach to cultural change will be assisted by the hiring of a DEI consultant. Using a consultant will likely be part of the plan if your workplace has already defined its goals, mission, and vision for creating a work environment that is culturally inclusive. The consultant will need to assist you with your plan, however, if you don’t already have one mapped out. So, their experience and expertise are of the utmost importance.
For the Best in DEI Consultancy, Look No Further than Tessi Consulting
Not sure where to begin when it comes to the diversity, equity, and inclusion of your company? We can help. We are Tessi Consulting. We can provide the consultant you need with the experience and expertise necessary to assist you in your strategic DEI plan.
Contact us today to get started. You can reach us by phone at 617-564-3331 or send us an email at >info@tessiconsulting.com. Experience a true DEI transformation courtesy of our assistance, training, and coaching.