DEI learnings from Slack’s Head of Equality

Podcast Summary: Episode of #TalentBuzz with Guest Hady Mendez from Slack

Host: Discusses talent acquisition in SaaS companies.Guest: Hady Mendez, Director of Equality at Slack.

Discussion on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB):

• DEIB Definitions:
• Diversity: Representation of different communities in a company.
• Equity: Providing access and opportunities to everyone.
• Inclusion: Inclusion of historically excluded groups, especially in leadership roles.
• Belonging: Creating welcoming spaces where everyone feels included.

Importance of DEIB for Businesses:

• Enhances Sense of Belonging: Fosters Employee Engagement.
• Boosts Innovation and Creativity: Leads to higher productivity and performance.
• Reflects Communities and Customers: Ensures representation of diverse groups.
• Taps into Varied Talent Pools: Expands the reach for potential employees.

Developing DEIB Strategies:

• Need for Strategy: Ensures effectiveness and clear objectives.
• Involvement of Experts and Data: Essential for informed decision-making.
• Lived Experiences: Offers additional insights beyond data.

Data Collection for DEIB Strategy:

• Representation Data: Analysis of employee demographics.
• Recruiting and Retention Data: Tracking progress and identifying opportunities.
• Belonging Metrics: Early indicators of potential retention issues.
• Intersectionality: Understanding layered identities within the workforce.

Recruiters' Role in DEIB:

• Diverse Talent Sourcing: Utilizing non-traditional sources and partnerships.
• Managing Biases: Training on inclusive hiring practices.
• Engaging with ERGs: Leveraging Employee Resource Groups for referrals and insights.

Challenges in Achieving Pay Equity:

• Disparities in Salaries: Addressing unequal pay for similar roles.
• Transparency: Open salary models to promote fairness.

Role of a Director of Equality:

• Supporting ERGs: Engaging with Employee Resource Groups.
• Data Analysis: Sharing and discussing data insights.
• Goal Setting and Tracking: Aligning with company objectives.
• Promoting Active Allyship: Showing what good looks like in DEIB efforts.
• Developing Content and Hosting Events: Creating awareness and understanding.
• Collaboration: Partnering with various teams and stakeholders.

Starting DEIB Initiatives in Small Companies:

• Foundation of Data: Collecting relevant information.
• Listening to People: Gathering diverse perspectives.
• Being Curious and Asking Questions: Understanding different viewpoints.
• Self-Care and Support: Recognizing the personal nature of DEIB work.
• Continuous Learning and Networking: Staying informed and connected.

Hady's Closing Thoughts:

• Encourages Engagement with DEIB: Highlights the need for ongoing learning and adaptation in DEIB initiatives.

‍