What’s Behind Your Diversity Mission Statement?
When it comes to diversity initiatives within law firms, a recent study by Novations Group pinpoints several areas for improvement. Novations Vice President Fred Smith gave a succinct overview of the issue when he said,
“The best diversity training has moved far beyond the one-dimensional, feel-good event and today needs to be held to the same rigorous standards as other corporate training. Anything less cheats participants, wastes resources and undermines diversity efforts.”
Smith is absolutely correct. No amount of deftly-worded copy on a firm’s web site–mere symbolism, however well intentioned, if there is no ongoing, integrated action–can disguise a lack of firm buy-in or action. In an increasingly competitive environment, firms are coming under scrutiny on diversity-related issues from both potential recruits and potential clients. And even mainstream media are happy to point fingers at firms whose diversity efforts aren’t as impressive or effective as they may sound.
How can your firm ensure that your diversity initiatives go beyond lip service?
- Get buy-in: Diversity must start at the top of an organization if it is to have the chance of being embraced by the entire organization. Ensure that the people in charge of your firm understand the ethical and business consequences that come from half-heartedly attempting diversity initiatives.
- Make it mainstream: It’s great if your firm’s affinity groups meet regularly and provide a support network within your firm, but don’t put them on a virtual island. If diversity is only being discussed among your affinity groups, your diversity initiatives are missing the mark.
- Recognize that communication is critical: The more you communicate, the more commitment you demonstrate. The more commitment you demonstrate, the more you attract the very people you want to attract, thus joining the still small but growing ranks of law firm success stories.
- Track progress: Report on progress concretely showing changing demographics at all levels of the organization.
Among too many law firms, diversity training is like rehab–it’s seen as the thing to do when issues arise. If diversity is woven into the fabric of your firm, you’ll be less likely to encounter issues.
