How Diversity Impacts Daily Operations of A Law Firm

For many, the mere mention of workplace DEI often results in visions of mandatory patronizing educational programs, policies prioritizing increased racial representation above all else, and overarching themes of shame and blame. These approaches are not effective, and perhaps most importantly do not accurately reflect the approach of DEI professionals that have been my trusted colleagues over my 15-plus years engaged in this work. Below are examples of effective operational impact and change led by diversity professionals that benefit all members of the workplace.

Increasing Procedural Transparency and Effectiveness

Review, compensation and promotion processes are often difficult to navigate, with only a select few in management with sight lines on how processes critical to advancement play out in reality. However, sight lines don't always equal insight or understanding as to how the processes impact the workforce. Through access to large scale organizational data sets, DEI professionals audit outcomes across personal and organizational categories to identify where efforts may be working effectively and/or as designed. In my work, I've identified and raised awareness of previously undiscovered trends disproportionately impacting populations by certain departments or locations, tenure, length of leaves, methods of hire and even educational background.