Beyond Backlash: The Continued Benefits of DEI at Work
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Beyond Backlash: The Continued Benefits of DEI at Work

29 October 2024 / Report

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1,345 US workers and leaders responded to an August 2024 survey from The Conference Board on perceptions of diversity, equity & inclusion (DEI) at work. Four-fifths support their organization’s DEI efforts overall, and more than two-thirds believe DEI has a positive impact on their work experience. Similarly, two-thirds would not, or would only reluctantly, work for an employer that does not take DEI seriously.

1,345 US workers and leaders responded to an August 2024 survey from The Conference Board on perceptions of diversity, equity & inclusion (DEI) at work. Four-fifths support their organization’s DEI efforts overall, and more than two-thirds believe DEI has a positive impact on their work experience. Similarly, two-thirds would not, or would only reluctantly, work for an employer that does not take DEI seriously.

Key Insights

  • More than 75% of organizations have DEI policies in place to promote equity, with strong support from most respondents; leaders should consider this support before revising their DEI programs.
  • DEI initiatives have a positive impact when leaders communicate its importance and where employee resource groups are available; leaders should emphasize DEI’s benefits for all employees and use insights from ERGs to guide decision-making.
  • Respondents view DEI as beneficial in fostering a strong workplace culture; accordingly, leaders should consider DEI’s ability and impact to shape a workplace culture that attracts and retains diverse talent.
  • Respondents are less positive about DEI’s effects on productivity; leaders should consider the specific conditions where productivity gains are most likely to be realized and how to measure and clearly communicate them.

More on this topic from The Confe

Authors

Allan Schweyer

Allan Schweyer Allan Schweyer

Principal Researcher, Human Capital
The Conference Board

Read Bio

Matthew Maloof

Matthew Maloof Matthew Maloof

Researcher, Human Capital
The Conference Board

Read Bio

Diana Scott

Diana Scott Diana Scott

US Human Capital Center Leader
The Conference Board

Read Bio

Rita Meyerson, EdD

Rita Meyerson, EdD Rita Meyerson, EdD

Principal Researcher, Human Capital
The Conference Board

Read Bio

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