DEI in Practice: Why Behaviors Matter

Your DEI Minute™

In this episode, Jamey discusses the distinction between focusing on beliefs and behaviors within the context of DEI initiatives in the workplace. He talks about why DEI can be a polarizing topic, with some detractors questioning its value. Instead of getting bogged down by changing beliefs, Jamey argues for a focus on observable behaviors that can drive meaningful change. He outlines the various pitfalls of focusing on beliefs, such as inefficient use of time, allowing resistance to dictate the environment, centering the wrong aspect of workplace dynamics, and contradicting the inclusive goals of DEI.

Jamey emphasizes the practical benefits of focusing on behaviors, using pronoun usage as a real-world example to illustrate his points. He asserts that clear expectations for behaviors can integrate DEI into daily organizational operations, facilitating a more inclusive and effective work environment. By setting and maintaining these behavioral expectations, organizations can demonstrate the value of DEI initiatives and potentially influence resistant employees through the positive outcomes they witness firsthand.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The Belief that DEI is Good for Business
• Pitfalls of Focusing on Beliefs in the Workplace
• Operational Inefficiency of Changing Beliefs
• How Belief-Focus Allows DEI Resistance to Persist
• Centering Actions Over Beliefs
• Contradictions of Belief-Focus with DEI Goals
• Benefits of Focusing on Behaviors Over Beliefs
• Practical Example: Pronoun Usage in the Workplace
• How Behavioral Expectations Can Drive Effective DEI Integration