We are delighted to kick off Hispanic Heritage Month with a roundtable discussion featuring leaders from the media, marketing, and advertising industry. In this insightful conversation, we will delve into the evolution of DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) in corporate America, the importance of increasing diversity in leadership positions, and the impact that Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) have on a company and its employees, enabling them to feel valued and supported.
Tahlisha Williams, Executive Vice President of Talent, Equity, and Learning Solutions at 4As, stressed the importance of employees seeing themselves represented in the workplace. She said, "They're not just employees; they're also consumers and part of the companies that our business and organizations are trying to reach. It's critically important that if they're choosing to bring their gifts, talents, and skills to us, we provide not only a microculture but also a foundation for them to, number one, see themselves represented, and number two, have the ability to develop in ways that are authentic to who they are and what they aspire to be."
Vanessa Sandoval, Senior Director of Human Resources at Hearst, emphasized the significance of employees of color being included in decision-making spaces and having their voices heard. She pointed out, "They may not be the head of a department, but if they're not being asked for their insight and input, then it's performative. Many organizations have adopted the mindset that having a diverse workforce is necessary and benefits everyone, but there's room for improvement in how it presents itself in day-to-day operations."
Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) have become increasingly popular, not just for providing networking opportunities but also for creating a sense of community within the workplace. Raul Tafur, Vice President of Social & Content Strategy at Canvas, shared his perspective, stating, "ERGs can help us with retention, and it's crucial to continue fulfilling the promises we make even before we hire these individuals. It's pivotal, not only for your agency but also for you as a leader, mentor, and member of a minority group, to pass the torch to the next generation, helping them stay engaged within the agency or their place of employment."
Jeannie Stezano, Director of Marketing Operations at A+E Networks, discussed the inception of their ERGs in 2020, highlighting the need to build a sense of community and belonging among diverse employees. She stated, "[Latinos] come in such a variety that it was an opportunity to build that community and identify each other, and that's where that sense of belonging happened. Most people don't stay at companies solely because of compensation. They want to belong, to feel valued, and ERGs facilitate that. If I were to consider another company, I'd look for one with ERGs because that signifies that the company values our communities and supports us."
When asked how prioritizing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging can lead to a successful business, Christine Rose, Senior Director of Regional Marketing at OUTFRONT, had this to say: "When you have different minds in the game, you get a lot of fresh ideas and innovative ways to solve problems. When everyone feels like they fit in, we all work better and are happier, and this positive energy extends to our relationships with our clients. Inclusivity allows us to truly understand our clients and their needs. Our success stems from everyone feeling like they belong and can be themselves, which sparks innovation and excites our clients."
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The opinions expressed here are the author's views and do not necessarily represent the views of MediaVillage.org/MyersBizNet.