If you’ve ever conducted a job search, you’ve sometimes seen that short script at the bottom of job ads in which employers state that they are an equal-opportunity organization. Those that explicitly mention diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) can seem promising, but it can be difficult to assess the true nature of a company’s culture before you accept a job. If you’re one of many American workers looking for DEI-related values in your next job, here are some things to consider before and during an interview:
Scan the “Team” or “Staff” landing pages on the company website. Look to see whether the company employs women, people of color, veterans, or other individuals from marginalized groups. Are any of these groups represented in leadership positions? The tone and focus of staff bios can provide some insight into company culture as well, as can an organization’s “About” page and social media posts.
Understand that diversity in itself does not constitute equity or inclusion. Companies that truly foster a culturally literate and healthy workplace don’t stop at hiring diverse candidates. They take consistent measures to ensure that all employees feel comfortable, safe, and valued in their daily work experiences.
Ask questions related to how the organization defines, values, and implements DEI. You can start with broad questions about the company work culture, how it relates to the organization’s core values, and ways in which that culture is manifested. As time allows, you can then ask more specific questions about the company’s DEI policies.
Ask whether and how employers encourage employee feedback. If business leaders don’t provide opportunities for workers to give feedback about their experiences within the company, they can’t accurately gauge the success or failure of DEI efforts. Actively requesting and acting upon employee feedback also helps employers to prevent high (and costly) turnover rates.
Ask about management styles at the company. This is an open-ended question that may not immediately lead to a DEI-related response, but job candidates can ask follow-up questions about how DEI training and literacy factor into management styles.
Enjoy A Progressive Work Experience with Progressive Lifestyles
Progressive Lifestyles, Inc. offers innovative essential services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout Oakland County, Michigan. Our mission is to provide supportive and caring residential opportunities for such individuals and an equally healthy work environment for our staff members.
As an employer, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. We offer a positive, supportive culture to which everyone can feel they belong. Our skilled managers provide hands-on training and flexible scheduling for all employees with the goal of helping everyone succeed.
We are hiring! No experience? No worries! You bring a warm heart and we'll teach you how to be a fantastic caregiver plus give you skills that you can use to further your career. Trust us, you can belong here!