What are Employee Resource Groups?
Employee Resource Groups are employee-led groups that celebrate diversity and promote a culture where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and empowered to be their authentic selves at work. Whether you’re passionate about supporting mental health initiatives, working parents, promoting cultural awareness, or advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, an ERG can help you connect with others who share your interests and experiences. Not only are ERGs great for networking and bonding over common goals, but they also give you a voice to enact real change. Your ERG can consult company leaders, organize events, and make your workplace better for everyone. If you don’t find an ERG that resonates with you, consider starting one! Finding some like-minded coworkers, outlining your mission, and getting leadership support is all it takes.
Here are some tips to start a mental health-focused Employee Resource Group:
1
Identify Goals and Objectives: Starting a mental health-focused ERG is a great initiative. Ask for feedback from fellow employees about what kind of mental health advocacy or support they need.
2
Build a Core Team: Recruit a small group of enthusiastic employees who share the goals of the ERG. This team will be the driving force behind your initiatives. Check in with your Human Resource team to determine a fair and equitable way to build the team.
3
Establish Leadership Roles: Assign roles like Chairperson, Vice Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer to keep things organized and running smoothly. This can be done through a vote and can be updated at a pace that fits your organization.
4
Develop a Mission Statement: Create a clear and simple mission statement that outlines what your ERG is all about. This will guide your activities and give your group direction.
5
Engage Leadership Support: Get support from senior leaders in the company, even asking a person from Leadership to sit on the ERG. Their backing can provide resources, visibility, and credibility to your ERG.
6
Promote Inclusivity: Make sure everyone feels welcome! Your ERG should be open to all employees, regardless of their background.
7
Create a Communication Plan: Decide how you’ll keep everyone informed. Use company-approved emails, newsletters, and internal channels as appropriate to spread the word about ERG activities. Keep communication channels open with HR to ensure collaboration around messaging.
8
Plan Events and Activities: Organize fun and educational events that match your ERG’s goals. Think about guest speakers, workshops, cultural celebrations, or volunteer opportunities.
9
Seek Feedback: Regularly ask members and participants for their thoughts and ideas. This will help you understand their needs and make improvements.
10
Collaborate with Other ERGs: Work with other ERGs in your company or with external groups. Together, you can make a bigger impact and share resources.
11
Measure Success: Set goals and track your progress. You can measure success by participation