When delivered well, Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion training can be incredibly valuable to business productivity and growth. Not only does the training help staff appreciate the value of working for an organisation that gives everyone a sense of belonging, but it also empowers them to work towards a culture that values all staff, regardless of their personal characteristics or traits,
When it's not delivered well however, the training can backfire. Below, we've outlined the three most common fails that can limit the training value:
1) When it's mandatory
When EDI training is mandatory, it can be viewed as punitive by participants. It may also be viewed as a 'tickbox' exercise with learners feeling that they have to go through the training as a rubber stamp exercise only.
By reinforcing the benefits of the training on an individual and business level, and presenting it as optional, learners are more likely to want to engage of their own volition. This, in turn, makes it more likely that participants will gain value from the training session and use their learning to positive effect.
2) When it's overly focused on legalities
Although underlying legalities are important, they shouldn't be used as the primary driver in any training session. Let's face it, not only can the legal side of things be dry, but, most importantly, the key drivers should relate to creating an inclusive working environment, free from potential discrimination and inequalities.
3) When it's only targetted at certain groups
Targeting it at certain groups only, for example, team leaders, sends the wrong message. This approach suggests that the training is only of value to a limited group and that it's something that the rest of the organisation doesn't need to concern themselves with.
Every individual within a business contributes to company culture and dynamics. As such, for the training to be of value, then it should be open to all members of staff, regardless of their seniority or position.
At Training South West, we provide high-impact training to companies across the region, including Devon, Somerset, Cornwall and Dorset. So, whether you're in Yeovil, Exeter, Plymouth, Pool, Dorchester, or Bath, our in-house, tailored courses will equip your staff with the insights needed to contribute to a positive work environment.
Our trainers use an interactive and hands-on training approach that focuses on topics such as:
-Diversity vs Inclusion
-Organisational and personal benefits of diverse and inclusive business environments
-Impact of equality, diversion, and inclusion 'gone wrong'
-Personal awareness and exploration
-Diversity with respect to areas such as disability, religion, gender, sexual orientation, generation, and ethnicity
-Discrimination and stereotyping
-Unconscious bias
-Microaggressions
-Building an inclusive work environment
- Maintaining an inclusive work environment
To speak to us about your training needs, contact the team. We will then arrange a call to discuss your needs in detail and to suggest ways in which we can help.