Diversity, Equity & Inclusion For Dummies

Chapter 20

Ten Ways That Boards Can Influence DEI in the Organization

IN THIS CHAPTER

Showing strong leadership in DEI efforts

Fostering a sense of learning and openness to change

More than ever before, boards of directors are recognizing that DEI not only contributes to organizational performance but also promotes better decision making, prevents blind spots in board deliberation, and enables them to access more resources and reach a broader community. Boards play an integral role in leading their companies through business and social change in ways that promote sustainability, performance, and value.

High-performing boards operate to their fullest potential when they tap into a broad range of diversity by drawing from the expertise of people across race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, thinking, working, and other areas, such as professional experience. An exceptional board is a high-performing team with a shared purpose to drive the work of the organization forward toward an important vision. Fostering a space that values the experiences of a diverse group and applies them to the oversight of social impact organizations is important to addressing social challenges.

Here are ten steps boards can take to better influence and lead their companies strategically and systemically ...