This course comprehensively introduces diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) concepts and best practices. Through interactive lessons, case studies, and exercises, learners will gain strategies for fostering inclusive behaviors and reducing bias in the workplace.
Why is this course needed?
While organizations may claim to value diversity, many still struggle with cultures of bias, discrimination, and exclusion that hold back marginalized groups. Without proactive efforts, inequities become further entrenched. DEI training is essential to drive change.
Unconscious biases lead to microaggressions, discriminatory behaviors, and lack of advancement opportunities for women, minorities, and other groups. This results in higher turnover as employees feel unable to thrive. Organizations need to take advantage of diverse perspectives that spur innovation.
Lack of cultural competency also leads to marketing and product development that fails to resonate with an increasingly diverse customer base. Missed opportunities with minority market segments can significantly impact the bottom line.
Many employees want to be allies but must learn to intervene against bias and create inclusion. DEI training allows people to identify exclusionary behaviors and policies and become advocates.
Training lays the foundation for organizations to implement equitable processes that remove systemic barriers. Without education on DEI issues, leaders lack the awareness to drive institutional change.
Proactive training also reduces legal risks and reputational damage from discrimination lawsuits. Shareholders and customers increasingly expect meaningful DEI commitments.
Employees demand more psychologically safe and equitable workplaces where they can thrive without bias. DEI training demonstrates that the organization is committed to creating a mutual respect and belonging culture.
In summary, DEI education provides the critical building blocks for organizations to transform their cultures, policies, and business practices to unlock the full potential of a diverse workforce and customer base. It is an essential investment as society and stakeholder expectations rapidly evolve.
Who is this Course For?
This course is designed for all professionals interested in advancing their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) competencies, including:
- Team leads, managers, and executives seeking to build more inclusive workplaces
- HR professionals and diversity officers responsible for DEI strategy and programs
- Employees wanting to become more effective DEI allies and advocates
- Individual contributors aiming to mitigate bias in daily interactions and decisions
- Organizational leaders looking to attract and retain diverse talent
- Anyone passionate about promoting equitable and just institutions
No prior DEI experience is necessary. This course provides DEI beginners with fundamental knowledge and more advanced strategies for experienced practitioners to progress to the next level.
What You’ll Learn
- Key terminology and concepts related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging
- How to recognize unconscious bias and microaggressions
- How to use inclusive language and behaviors in communications
- Techniques for speaking up against discrimination
- Ways to advocate for marginalized groups
- Strategies for applying DEI principles on the job
Course Content
DEI Fundamentals
- Definitions of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging
- Business case for DEI in the workplace
- Assessing organizational DEI maturity
Understanding Bias
- Common forms of bias and discrimination
- Impact of unconscious bias and microaggressions
- Strategies for identifying and mitigating bias
Building Inclusion
- Hallmarks of Inclusive Work Cultures
- Inclusive language, behaviors, and norms
- Allyship and advocacy for marginalized groups
- Bystander intervention approaches
Taking Action
- Safely speaking up against bias and discrimination
- Reporting discriminatory behaviors and incidents
- Ongoing DEI education and growth
- Applying learnings in the workplace
Additional Resources
- DEI assessments and audits
- Sample inclusive policies and guidelines
- DEI education sources and reading list
- Glossary of key terminology
Course Format
This course uses a blended format with:
- Interactive online lessons and assessments
- Reflection exercises and discussions
- Downloadable tools and resources
- Live virtual sessions
Benefits for the Organization
Investing in DEI education for your workforce can provide immense benefits for your organization, such as:
- Increased employee engagement, satisfaction, performance, and retention.
- Innovation and better decision-making from diverse perspectives
- Enhanced brand reputation and trust among marginalized customer segments
- Legal and regulatory compliance through reduced discrimination and harassment
- Identification of gaps, risks, and areas for improvement
- A more inclusive culture that unlocks the potential of all employees
Benefits for Individuals
Individuals who complete this course will be able to:
- Recognize unconscious bias and intervene to reduce discrimination.
- Confidently use inclusive language and practices in communications.
- Become better allies and advocates for marginalized coworkers.
- Interrupt and report microaggressions, harassment, and other exclusionary behaviors.
- Incorporate DEI principles into daily work, people management, and interactions.
- Participate in ongoing education and dialogue on diversity issues.
This leads to greater career opportunities, peer respect, and personal fulfillment from advocating for equity.