Women at Work

Ground Your DEI Efforts in Data

Aug 12, 2024

In this engaging discussion, DEI strategist Lily Zheng shares insights on the pivotal role of data in driving effective diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. They highlight how measurable outcomes can help organizations identify inequities in recruiting and improve their approaches, regardless of size or budget. Zheng also tackles the prevalent backlash against DEI efforts and advocates for transparency in data to foster accountability and trust. With real-world examples, they inspire leaders to cultivate meaningful change through informed decision-making.

42:12

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Episode guests

Lily Zheng

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Data-driven strategies are essential for identifying and addressing inequities in diversity, equity, and inclusion practices within organizations.

Successful communication and accountability around DEI outcomes can empower departments to take ownership and drive meaningful changes in organizational culture.

Deep dives

The Importance of Data in DEI Initiatives

Data-driven approaches are crucial for implementing effective diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in organizations. Measuring outcomes allows companies to identify where their efforts may be falling short and helps uncover systemic issues within hiring procedures. For instance, one company discovered that its gender and racial recruiting efforts were equitable at the start, but biases in subsequent stages led to significant disparities in the selection process. This finding underscores the need for organizations to maintain a focus on data collection and analysis to ensure accountability and transparency in their DEI practices.

Intro

3min

Navigating the DEI Backlash

8min

Overcoming the Fear of Data in DEI Efforts

2min

Data-Driven DEI: Accountability and Transparency

12min

Evaluating Impactful DEI Outcomes

2min

Building Effective DEI Programs

14min

Do you know how your company’s DEI efforts are going? What data does your company collect to track and shape these efforts?

In this episode, DEI strategist and consultant Lily Zheng explains why data-driven efforts are everything. The way people make lasting progress on diversity, equity, and inclusion is to measure outcomes.

During this year’s Women at Work Live event, DEI strategist Lily explained the opportunities that data can create for DEI. They give examples from different companies, including one that was able to discern where exactly their recruiting efforts became inequitable and how the company fixed it. Lily also has advice for making a difference with data even when your company is tiny or you’re starting from scratch or there’s no budget.

Guest experts:

Lily Zheng is a diversity, equity, and inclusion strategist, consultant, and speaker who works with organizations to achieve the DEI impact and outcomes they need. They are the author of DEI Deconstructed: Your No-Nonsense Guide to Doing the Work and Doing it Right.

Resources: