In 2024, coaches know embracing diversity and inclusion (DEI) isn’t just a moral imperative—it’s a strategic advantage that drives bottom-line results. In an era marked by uncertainty, some leaders might hesitate to prioritize DEI initiatives, precisely when they should be doubling down.
Diversity and inclusion aren’t just about fostering a warm and fuzzy atmosphere — they are also about cultivating a culture of belonging that propels individuals to unleash their full potential, ultimately enhancing organizational performance.
Here are ten ways to help your clients understand why 2024 is the year to deepen their commitment to DEI and belonging.
1. Enlighten with DEI Knowledge Bombs
Diverse teams are a powerhouse of innovation and productivity. Help your clients grasp the tangible benefits of DEI, from driving creativity to boosting profitability. Show them how a culture of belonging fuels employee engagement and unlocks hidden talent within their organization.
2. Craft Messages that Pack a Punch
Tailor your messaging to resonate with the core values and aspirations of your clients’ organizations. Paint a vivid picture of past successes achieved through DEI initiatives, illustrating how diversity drives organizational success and propels teams towards their goals.
3. Smash Myths & Misconceptions
Challenge any misconceptions your clients may have about DEI. DEI isn’t about meeting quotas—it’s about tapping into the full spectrum of human potential and fostering an inclusive environment where every voice is valued and heard.
4. Foster Growth Through Understanding
Create a safe space for your clients to explore their biases and preconceptions. Through candid conversations and targeted workshops, help them uncover the unconscious biases that may be hindering their organization’s progress in DEI and belonging.
5. Champion the Cause with Fierce Voices
Encourage your clients to amplify the voices of diversity and inclusion champions within their organization. These change-makers possess the passion and conviction to inspire others and drive meaningful cultural transformation.
6. Manifest the Vision
Paint a compelling vision of what an inclusive organization looks like. Show your clients how embracing diversity and fostering belonging can ignite a spark of innovation and drive organizational success.
7. Start With Steps, Not Leaps
Encourage your clients to take incremental steps towards DEI and belonging. Celebrate each milestone achieved along the way, recognizing that small wins lay the foundation for lasting cultural change.
8. Cultivate Spaces of Trust
Create environments where honest dialogue and open communication thrive. By fostering trust and transparency, you can create a foundation for meaningful progress towards DEI and belonging.
9. Affirm the Moral and Legal Imperative of DEI
Remind your clients of their ethical and legal responsibility to create inclusive spaces where every individual feels valued and respected. Upholding principles of justice and equity isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s essential for organizational success.
10. Walk Beside Them, Every Step of the Way
Offer unwavering support and guidance as your clients navigate their DEI journey. Equip them with the tools and resources they need to drive meaningful change and create a more inclusive future for their organization.
In every organization, there’s a yearning for connection and recognition. As coaches, it’s our responsibility to harness that desire and channel it towards meaningful action.
By championing DEI and belonging, we can pave the way for a future where diversity isn’t just embraced—it’s celebrated as the cornerstone of collective success. Let’s lead the charge and make it happen.
Kelly Meerbott, PCC is a renowned expert in executive leadership, an award winning coach, author, and TEDx Speaker. As a leadership coach, Kelly has worked with senior executives, the C-suite, and more than 400 high-ranking officers in the US military. Her customized strategies have demonstrated and measurable results, and her trauma-informed approach and PTSD training makes her unique in the industry. Combined with her coaching experience, Kelly creates a psychologically safe space for confidentiality where clients can be honest and truthful so they can break through their worst roadblocks. Kelly has multiple coaching certifications in Human & Organizational Transformation, Unconscious Bias, Leadership, cognitive therapy, improv, and communications. She is a certified clinical trauma specialist.
Currently accepting new clients for late 2024-2025, Kelly invites you to discover how her coaching can transform your leadership journey.
