Empowering Belonging

The Inclusion Bites Podcast

The Role of Governance in Effective ERG Leadership

Alyssa Dver explores the empowering journey of ageing, the importance of nurturing valuable relationships, and the enriching experience of diverse perspectives while advocating for inclusive and psychologically safe work environments.

In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood welcomes guest Alyssa Dver to discuss the nuances of creating and sustaining a sense of belonging. Joanne reflects on turning 60, sharing how she feels more settled in her personality and wisdom gained over the past decade. Alyssa appreciates this perspective, noting that age often brings the ability to simplify and enrich life by focusing on what truly matters. The conversation touches on shedding unnecessary relationships and valuing meaningful connections as they age.

Alyssa Dver, a confidence expert and leader of the ERG Leadership Alliance, joins Joanne to share her remarkable insights on empowerment and belonging. Alyssa has dedicated her career to helping people feel valued and confident, creating spaces where everyone can find a sense of belonging. Through her work with the American Confidence Institute and ERG Leadership Alliance, Alyssa has influenced corporate cultures globally, providing training and resources to enhance leadership and foster inclusive environments. Alyssa's personal journey, including experiences with her son's neurological issues, has fuelled her passion for genuine well-being and psychological safety in the workplace.

Joanne and Alyssa discuss the importance of being judicious with time and relationships, likening unnecessary subscriptions to unneeded relationships that drain rather than add value. They also touch upon the influence of diverse perspectives, with Joanne highlighting the importance of understanding others' lived experiences even without full agreement. Alyssa sheds light on the learned nature of selfish behaviours as defensive mechanisms and the role of belonging in reducing global conflicts. The debate around Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) ownership, governance, and the strategic structure necessary for their effectiveness is explored, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of ERGs' dynamic roles in organisations.

The episode concludes with hopes for a peaceful resolution to future societal challenges and emphasises the power of community support in fostering resilience. Joanne invites listeners to share their thoughts, subscribe to the podcast, and stay engaged for future episodes that promise to delve deeper into inclusivity and belonging.

A key takeaway from this episode is the shift from accumulating to prioritising meaningful connections, the critical role of diverse perspectives in fostering innovation, and the importance of empowering others to create inclusive environments. Whether you're managing an ERG, navigating personal growth, or seeking to cultivate a sense of belonging in your community, this episode offers valuable insights to inspire and guide you on your journey.

Published: 09.01.2025 Recorded: 03.12.2024 Duration: 1:03:16

Shownotes:

• AI Extracts and Interpretations
• The Inclusion Bites Podcast #142: Empowering Belonging — app.castmagic.io
• Other Links
• SEE Change Happen: The Inclusive Culture Experts
• Inclusion Bites Podcast on YouTube

Clips and Timestamps

Maintaining the Importance of Diversity: “The constructs are still, maybe even more so, important.”
— Alyssa Dver [00:27:49 → 00:27:53]

Understanding Trauma in the Classroom: “You’re never going to understand, nor should you, nor, you know, it’s almost a waste of time in many cases to try and really understand the trauma. But there are ways we can support that child in learning better, knowing that they’ve been through trauma.”
— Alyssa Dver [00:31:27 → 00:31:43]

The Importance of Vulnerability in Leadership: “I can’t bring my whole self to work if you’re not even letting me open my mouth in a meeting.”
— Alyssa Dver [00:32:13 → 00:33:05] Fear of Empowerment in Leadership: “Leaders fear empowering people because it means that they’re gonna lose their own power, which in truth is just the opposite.”
— Alyssa Dver [00:34:22 → 00:34:29] Leadership Challenges in Group Dynamics: “So, there’s a lot of new people that come and go, and they may or may not have experience leading a group at all.”
— Alyssa Dver [00:39:59 → 00:40:06]

**Importance of Clear Mission Statements**: “Those fundamentals are really important. And and in light of those, when you’re clear about who that group is for, the structure of the group, the processes of the group, the roles of the different not just in the leadership chain, but the executive sponsors, the role of the allies. When you have those fundamentals updated regularly, then everything else gets easier.”
— Alyssa Dver [00:41:40 → 00:42:03]

The Future of Employee Resource Groups: “Now, here’s where the ERGs and the whole world is changing a lot. And you were in the London event. You know that my trends report for 2025 is all about the numbers.”
— Alyssa Dver [00:44:48 → 00:44:59]

The Importance of Quantitative Outcomes in Business: “The ERGs have been there, but there never really been this rally cry of we’ve got to show the quantitative outcome to the business because the businesses are funding this.”
— Alyssa Dver [00:45:30 → 00:45:39]

**The Importance of Executive Sponsorship in Organisational Success**: “The only way one of these groups really does well is if it has good executive sponsorship. Why? Because they have the visibility, they have the ear, they have the power really to ensure that that group is respected.”
— Alyssa Dver [00:52:42 → 00:52:57]

Balancing Diversity and Community Building: “But to expect a single diversity person or department for that matter, if there’s still a department in your organisation, or to expect the employees to do it on their own, it’s kind of naive.”
— Alyssa Dver [00:58:13 → 00:58:20]

Definition of Terms Used

Judicious with Time and Relationships

• Definition: Being selective and wise about how one allocates time and cultivates relationships, focusing on those that are mutually beneficial and fulfilling.
• Relevance: As people age, they tend to prioritise meaningful connections and activities, enhancing their quality of life and emotional well-being.
• Examples: Shedding superficial friendships, avoiding time-wasting activities, and investing more in family and close friends.
• Related Terms: Time Management, Prioritisation, Relationship Building
• Common Misconceptions: Some may think it means becoming antisocial or reclusive, but it actually involves being more intentional about one’s social interactions.

Symbiotic Relationships

• Definition: Relationships wherein both parties benefit and support each other, contributing positively to each other’s lives.
• Relevance: Fostering symbiotic relationships leads to a more balanced and supportive social network, enhancing personal and professional growth.
• Examples: Mentorships, collaborative partnerships, and friendships where both individuals offer genuine support and value.
• Related Terms: Mutualism, Reciprocity, Cooperative Relationships
• Common Misconceptions: People might confuse them with one-sided relationships where only one person benefits, but true symbiotic relationships are mutually advantageous.

Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)

• Definition: Voluntary, employee-led groups within organisations aimed at fostering a diverse, inclusive workplace aligned with the company’s mission and values.
• Relevance: ERGs play a critical role in promoting inclusivity, providing support networks for employees, and enhancing company culture.
• Examples: Women in Tech groups, LGBTQ+ alliances, and multicultural networks within a company.
• Related Terms: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), Affinity Groups, Employee Networks
• Common Misconceptions: There is a belief that ERGs are only social clubs without tangible benefits, but they significantly impact employee retention, satisfaction, and productivity.

Psychological Safety

• Definition: A belief that one can speak up, share ideas, and take risks without fear of negative consequences to self-image, status, or career.
• Relevance: Psychological safety is essential for fostering innovation, creativity, and overall team performance in the workplace.
• Examples: Open-door policies, encouraging team discussions, and creating a culture where feedback is valued and respected.
• Related Terms: Trust, Emotional Safety, Inclusive Leadership
• Common Misconceptions: Some may think it equates to being ‘soft’ or avoiding conflict, whereas it actually involves creating an environment where constructive criticism and debate are welcomed.

Governance

• Definition: The framework of rules, practices, and processes by which an organisation is directed and controlled, including ERGs and advisory boards.
• Relevance: Effective governance is crucial for maintaining order, ensuring accountability, and aligning group activities with organisational goals.
• Examples: Establishing clear roles and responsibilities, regular reviews of ERG objectives, and transparent decision-making processes.
• Related Terms: Administration, Leadership, Organisational Oversight
• Common Misconceptions: Governance is often perceived as restrictive or bureaucratic, but when done correctly, it provides structure and enhances efficiency.

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Please connect with our hosts and guests, why not make contact..?

Brought to you by your host

Joanne Lockwood SEE Change Happen

A huge thank you to our wonderful guest

Alyssa Dver ERG Alliance

The post Empowering Belonging appeared first on SEE Change Happen: The Inclusive Culture Experts.

فصول

1. Introduction and Welcome (00:00:00)

2. Processing events reveals ongoing disbelief and pain. (00:01:30)

3. Understanding others' perspectives is finding middle ground. (00:08:11)

4. Living authentically means embracing vulnerability and uncertainty. (00:15:05)

5. Friendships decrease with age; fewer close friends. (00:19:04)

6. The challenge of workplace belongingness motivates action. (00:25:59)

7. ERGs foster connection regardless of diversity focus. (00:27:18)

8. Empowering leadership fosters innovation and entrepreneurship. (00:34:06)

9. Define your group's purpose, structure, and roles. (00:41:07)

10. Business funding requires justification of decisions. (00:44:07)

11. Fast-track growth and networking opportunity. (00:49:07)

12. Global company hosts town hall for community building. (00:57:39)

13. Join our community driving inclusion and change. (01:02:00)