THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING A DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION AMBASSADOR

Abstract

AbstractThe author, a longtime corporate executive, writes that “everyone must play a role in creating a diverse and inclusive work environment in any organization.” She notes that a “Diversity and Inclusion Ambassador is a person who acts as a representative or promoter of diversity and inclusion within the organization.” Her framework for becoming an ambassador is in three parts, which in her words are (1) Look at yourself. (2) Take an inventory of your surroundings. (3) Take action. In step one, “do a self‐reflection and assessment to determine what your strengths and areas of development are.” Step two involves “taking an inventory of your surroundings so you can know what to do to help others.” In step three, “you have to put into action the revelations you have after your initial assessments.” Ambassadors can be either individual contributors or C‐Suite leaders. Regarding the former, “For those employees who are not people managers, they are still instrumental to organizations creating a diverse and inclusive culture.” For the latter, “acting as a diversity and inclusion ambassador means that you are exemplifying the ideals of diversity and inclusion and promoting those ideals to others throughout your organization.” Examples are provided for how to make these roles effective for both contributors and leaders.