ERGS

What is an Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)? 

Employee Resource Groups are voluntary, employee-led groups whose aim is to foster a diverse, inclusive workplace aligned with the organizations they serve. 

They usually led and participated in by employees who share a characteristic, whether it's sexuality, gender, ethnicity, religious affiliation, lifestyle, or interest. The groups exist to provide support and help in personal or career development and to create a safe space where employees can bring their whole selves to the table. Allies may also be invited to join the ERG to to support their colleagues.

Why are Employee Resource Groups important?

We know that innovation can only flourish when employees feel safe bringing their whole selves to work.

ERGs build high-trust relationships that help companies flourish. The groups foster a sense of belonging and inspire conversation, bring new ways to look at issues and drive innovation.

Many executives at companies with ERGs find that they're a critical resource for gaining deeper insights from their Trust Index™ survey results. When there are gaps in experiences, leaders often turn to ERGs to ensure that everyone, regardless of role or demographic, can succeed.

How should you start an Employee Resource Group?

Effective ERGs are both top-down and bottom-up. First, the executive management team needs to fully support, fund and endorse any ERG.  One best practice is to ensure that each ERG has a senior leader as their executive sponsor and full participant.

Then, invite all employees to participate in all ERGs, either as a member of the specific group or as an ally.