It's Time to Talk about Race at Work

CHAPTER 14Mentoring, Networking, and Checking In: Three Big Ways You Can Help Your Diverse Employees Succeed

Chapter 13 covered recruiting and interviewing people of color and other minority groups. Let's assume that you've been successful in making good hires with new and diverse talent. Congrats! Now you need to make sure that your hires succeed. Although you hired people who are qualified and bring diverse perspectives to the table, you can't just throw them into your team, department, or organization and expect them to flourish. They're going to need your support and backing if they are to fulfill their potential.

Even if your organization doesn't have formal programs in place to support diverse employees, there are three key ways you can help ensure their success: mentoring, networking, and checking in.

MENTORING

Have you ever had a really great boss or supervisor? If you're lucky enough to say “yes,” think back to what made them so great. Aside from their own talent and experience, I'm betting that what made them “great” was that they supported you. Whether it was spending time with you, teaching you and providing insights, giving you new challenges, or introducing you to new people and opportunities, your great boss invested in you and had your back.

When people feel supported, their confidence—and accomplishments—grow. Employees who feel supported are not afraid to ask questions or seek clarification or direction on a project. They're more likely to reach for new ...