What Is DEI Training?
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), sometimes referred to as Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB or DEI+B) is a corporate concept to create a welcoming environment that fosters better performance and employee morale. DEI training is a course or series of sessions designed to move this goal from an abstract idea to actionable culture changes. DEI training can refer to advancement courses for Human Resource (HR) professionals to further their experience and earn a DEI training certification, but the term can also be used to mean a broader, company-wide training led by HR professionals to promote the program across an entire organization.
Why DEI Training Is Important and Valuable
While asking, “What is DEI training?” is the first step to better understanding, learning the value of DEI is equally as important. Each letter represents an individual concept essential to a cohesive and hospitable workplace.
- Diversity – Diversity focuses on creating an environment with differences in race, gender, age, sexual orientation, and ethnicity. The core goal is to embrace these differences to improve problem-solving and collaboration.
- Equity – As the name suggests, equity is about providing equal opportunities to all individuals. This area focuses on removing barriers and overcoming unconscious biases to provide fair treatment.
- Inclusion – Any individual, group, or organization is respected and valued in an inclusive setting. No matter their background, individuals are welcomed and encouraged to participate.
DEI for the Workplace
With women making up more than half the US labor force at 55% and the country’s white population in decline, DEI training in the workplace is more critical than ever. Companies that embrace and emphasize DEI can improve employee morale, increase collaboration and business performance, and attract top talent. In fact, 76% of candidates reported that diversity was important when considering new job opportunities. Organizations that lean into DEI can expect many positive changes, both culturally and through team performance.
DEI for HR Professionals
While DEI is important for large organizations, it is equally important for HR professional advancement and growth. HR professionals should be well trained in DEI to improve culture and tackle sensitive issues successfully.
HR Education Network (HREN) can bridge this knowledge gap. HREN offers corporate DEI training options, which companies can sign up for here. HREN also offers a DEI micro-credential that builds toward SHRM/HRCI recertifications for those working toward a formal DEI training certification.
How to Introduce or Foster DEI Training in the Workplace
There is no better time to introduce DEI into the workplace than today. HR professionals typically lead and own this program. DEI is an expansive and ever-growing topic that evolves each year. This means HR personnel should evaluate the best way to implement training in their own company. There is no perfect, one-size-fits-all approach. Breaking training into multiple sessions over a quarter—or segmenting training into smaller department groups—can help with the adoption of new policies and practices.
Find tips, ideas, and even an example DEI meeting agenda on our blog to get started. If you’re looking for more assistance, reach out to HREN for more information on DEI corporate training.
Let HREN Help!
Diverse companies in the top quartile for ethnic diversity are 27% more likely to outperform competitors, and the most gender-diverse companies see a 48% increase in performance compared to less gender-diverse. With so many studies pointing to the importance of DEI in both culture and performance, it’s time to get started.
Begin corporate DEI training with HREN by filling out this form today. Or, for individuals working toward a DEI training certification, explore our Micro DEI course.
