Economic development organizations are huge resources in the community. And so often, they’re a “best kept secret,” especially amongst underserved populations. How can we change that?
Over the years, “DEI” has become a buzz phrase regularly used. Beyond the phrase, it’s important to take a step back and see what we’re really doing to incorporate diversity, equity, and inclusion in our programs and outreach.
We can take some simple steps regularly to create a more inclusive environment. Here are questions to reflect on to see how you could be improving your efforts:
- Have you refreshed your target audience personas recently? Try looking at your target audience personas through the lens of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
- Are your current marketing photos inclusive and representing underserved populations? Review the images used on your website, newsletters, social media, and advertisements, and make changes for more inclusivity.
- Where are you meeting individuals? Are you truly being accessible? Consider visiting places of worship and community centers where underserved populations are gathering.
- What actions are you taking on a regular basis? You could set the goal of dedicating yourself twice a week to reaching out and establishing relationships with new organizations. Let them know what economic development is, ask what their needs are in the community, and see what you can do to support them.
- How are you finding diverse new talent for your community? Does your talent attraction campaign include any collaboration with any of the 107 Historically Black Colleges and Universities across the country?
If the people you need to reach aren’t already knocking on your door, following your social media, or reading your blog, you’ve got to take more intentional steps to find them.
Let us know which of these steps you’ll focus on to create more diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Would you like outside support with creating an action-oriented DEI plan? Let’s talk. Schedule a 15-minute consultation with us here.
Reimagining Places With You,
Sandy and the PPR Strategies Team
