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Career

Employee Resource Groups: What you need to know

Amy C. Waninger · 2017-07-04 · 10 Comments

Author’s note: This article is adapted from my book, Network Beyond Bias.

What are Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)?

Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) have started cropping up in companies. You may know them as Employee Affinity Groups (EAGs), Business Resource Groups (BRGs), or by another name. These groups are usually launched to help employees, particularly those who face cultural headwinds, connect with one another. And there are many other benefits for companies and employees alike.

How do Employee Resource Groups benefit companies?

Finding and attracting diverse talent

There is a significant talent shortage in many industries. Many companies have aggressive recruiting goals they are struggling to meet. These companies may be in a rut: recruiting from the same professional networks, schools, or geographic areas for decades.

By engaging current employees, companies can expand their reach to find and attract talent in areas they haven’t approached before. People tend to know others who are similar to them. So companies can find new pools of talent by leveraging the connections of employees from non-traditional backgrounds.

From a recruiting perspective, Employee Resource Groups offer an attractive selling point to job candidates. Many new employees want to believe they will feel welcome and accepted in a new company. The company with Employee Resource Groups can demonstrate cultural understanding and acceptance before the candidate has even applied for the job. Having an ERG tells the job candidate, “There are successful people in the company just like you. They want to help you be successful, too.”

Introducing new employees to the corporate culture

Once hired, new employees may need help understanding cultural norms of the company. Fellow ERG members may be helpful in this process, especially if the corporate culture does not readily translate to the subculture of the affinity group. For example, Asian-Americans may find it difficult to tout their own accomplishments due to values instilled in them since childhood. Women may have been taught to downplay their intelligence in group settings. In a large company, these professionals may need to find ways to adapt that are both advantageous in the workplace and culturally acceptable. Employee Resource Groups can help with provide integration strategies from a first-hand perspective.

Identifying and retaining top talent

Employee Resource Groups give a voice and sense of community to employees who may otherwise feel isolated or underrepresented, helping companies to retain talent in their organizations. When people feel isolated, they are not as engaged. Connected employees are more productive, more loyal, and better brand ambassadors. Connected employees stick around.

Rewards and recognition are also a key factor in employee retention. Research shows that managers are more likely to reward and promote employees who are like them. This is especially true when those managers don’t recognize their own biases. If a company has a high percentage of managers with similar demographics, it is likely that those demographics will not change much over time. Employee Resource Groups offer a different avenue for those managers to recognize talent they might otherwise overlook. They can also help mitigate against the default mode of hiring, recognizing, and promoting only within their existing inner circles.

Expanding into new markets and customer segments

Breaking into new markets can be tricky. Many companies have struggled to set the right tone in their advertising. Others may not even recognize that they have a potential niche customer base. In a recent interview, Howard J. Ross reminded us that it’s hard to sell to someone you’ve just insulted. It’s perhaps even harder to sell to someone you don’t know exists.

A diverse employee base can give an insider perspective on different markets and customer preferences. For example, a Latinx ERG might help a company translate both the language and the “feel” of commercials so they seem natural to the target community. An ERG for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) employees may help a financial services company create new products or services tailored to the legal issues faced by this consumer group. By working with management and marketing teams, Employee Resource Groups can provide a competitive edge in under-performing market segments.[bctt tweet=”ERGs can provide competitive advantage in underperforming markets.” username=”LeadAtAnyLevel”]

How do Employee Resource Groups benefit employees?

Professional development opportunities

As companies seek to develop new talent pools, employees can use Employee Resource Groups to position themselves for success. Participation in Employee Resource Groups can provide opportunities that may be missing from the employee’s “day job.” For example, an employee who plans an ERG networking event gains project management experience. Another employee who attends the networking event may meet managers from other areas of the company. Employee Resource Groups provide endless volunteer opportunities and chances to be noticed by management.

A sense of belonging

Most employees are happier and more engaged when they feel connected to others at work. Employee Resource Groups can provide a sense of community and connection, even in very large companies. By meeting others with similar life experiences, people feel more supported. These relationships often go beyond transactional, into deep friendships and mentorships. Project work, problem solving, career management, and other daily realities of corporate life are much easier when you have strong relationships.

Address ignorance and stereotypes head-on

Individual employees often find themselves on the receiving end of harmful stereotypes. Many will find that even well-meaning coworkers can be insensitive to or ignorant about deeply-held cultural norms. By themselves, they may be uncomfortable addressing or combating these situations. However, an ERG can organize entertaining “mythbusting” sessions, cultural awareness events, or expert panels that educate the larger corporate community. Doing so not only improves the environment for affinity employees. Everyone benefits from having a broader perspective and greater empathy.

Including everyone in the conversation

When you look at your company’s executive team, do you see someone who looks like you? Do you see someone to whom you can easily relate? If so, you may take this representation for granted. For those who aren’t part of an underrepresented group, this isn’t about being “politically correct.” And it’s not about offering special treatment to certain groups of people. It’s about recognizing that certain interests and perspectives are represented by default. Employee Resource Groups help expand the circle to include new perspectives at all levels of the organization.[bctt tweet=”ERGs help expand representation to include new perspectives at all levels of the organization.” username=”LeadAtAnyLevel”]

Think about a time when you felt different: new kid in school, new on the job, dressed informally for a formal event, visiting a different office, visiting a foreign country. Can you imagine feeling that way every day of your career?

We can all benefit by educating ourselves on the experience of being different and by opening ourselves up to the value that experience offers.

Get involved as soon as possible!

If your company has Employee Resource Groups, I encourage you to join a group with which you identify. Especially in large companies, this can provide a sense of belonging that you may not even know you’re missing.

And, more important, sign up as an “ally” in an ERG that is outside your own identity. If that makes you uncomfortable, ask yourself why — and be brave enough to answer yourself honestly. I hope you’ll take a few minutes to learn more … from a different perspective.

You have nothing at all to lose, and so much to gain.

Résumé Tips for Entry-Level Jobs

Amy C. Waninger · 2017-07-03 · Leave a Comment

Almost everyone dreads compiling a résumé and searching for a job. If you have work experience in your field, you need strategies to stand out from other applicants. Those who are shifting focus mid-career need to focus on transferable skills and past records of success (stay tuned for a future post on this topic). And if you’re new to the workforce, you may have no idea how to market yourself as a professional.

As a manager, I have hired interns and entry-level hires many times. There are definitely ways to catch a hiring manager’s eye, even if you have no work experience. All it takes is a little creative thinking.

Why do I need a résumé for an entry-level job?

Every employer wants to hire the best candidates possible. For entry-level positions, work experience requirements are usually flexible. The recruiter or hiring manager probably doesn’t expect you to have relevant experience. Instead, he or she is looking for indicators that you will be a good employee. This definitely includes:

  • dependability, responsibility, and integrity
  • ability to manage your own time and tasks
  • experience contributing to team goals
  • communication skills appropriate to the position
  • willingness to learn

A hiring manager may also want you to list references, or people who will say that you are reliable and honest.

What if I don’t have work experience?

If you are a student or recent student, you can probably demonstrate these characteristics through activities other than work experience.

Unpaid and “odd jobs” are still jobs

  • Have you done yard work, housework, babysitting, or odd jobs for neighbors or family friends? Guess what! You have work experience. Ask these friends and neighbors if you can list them as references.
  • Do you have family responsibilities that demonstrate responsibility? Taking care of younger siblings, an ailing family member, or significant household chores can be work experience. Be aware, however, that references from family members may not carry much weight. Instead, you may wish to rely on family friends who can speak to your work ethic and character.
  • If you have volunteered within the community, say so. Volunteering shows that you have taken initiative and are willing to learn. In this case, your volunteer coordinator or a community contact (such as a librarian or church leader) might serve as a reference.

School activities count for a lot

  • Involvement in organized sports, school clubs, and other extracurricular activities shows that you can fulfill your commitments. And if you’ve been in a leadership role, such as team captain, be sure to include that in your resume or job application. List your coach or club sponsor as a reference.
  • Think about significant projects you’ve completed during your coursework. If you’ve contributed to a successful group project, list that experience. Did you ace a solo research paper or “business simulation” project? If so, you can list self-direction and time management among your strengths. Get creative, and always be honest.

Hobbies can count, too!

  • Generally, you should avoid listing your hobbies on your résumé. I suggest a slightly different approach. If you build websites, produce podcasts, or build spreadsheets to manage a household budget, you have marketable skills. List these under the Skills & Expertise section in your résumé, but only if they are appropriate for your target position.

Yeah, but…

If you’re still unsure how best to market yourself, consider asking for help.

  • You can use sites like Fiverr to find résumé writing services on the cheap.
  • If you are a student, your school may offer free assistance. Find out if your guidance department, job placement services office, or academic adviser can point you in the right direction.
  • If there are no formal programs at your school, consider asking an instructor or Marketing major for some pointers.
  • Check your local library. Libraries frequently have staff members or access to community resources who can assist you in your job search.
  • Consider engaging a mentor. A mentor can help you far beyond your résumé. He or she can help you prepare for interviews, guide you through the hiring process, and keep you motivated during your search.

Wherever you are in your job search, remember this: Everyone had to start somewhere. Where you go from here is anyone’s guess!

Best wishes, and let me know how you’re doing.

Résumé Need a Boost? Start with Non-stop Learning

Amy C. Waninger · 2017-06-24 · 10 Comments

Part 1 of 2: Never Stop Learning

Does your résumé need a boost? Sometimes our day jobs provide us with all the skills, training, and challenge we need to grow in our careers. Many times, however, we find ourselves stuck in a routine that limits our growth. Other times, we just want to stand out in a sea of applicants.

Follow these tips if you want to:

  • take on additional responsibility at work
  • compete for a promotion
  • apply to your first management job
  • change careers, companies, or industries
  • enter the job market for the first time or after an extended leave

Add Certifications and Designations to Your Résumé

Industry-specific certifications

There are companies and associations that provide training for almost every industry. For example, in the insurance industry, you can boost your résumé by passing courses from a number of groups.

  • Casualty Actuary Society
  • The Institutes
  • National Alliance for Insurance Education and Research
  • The National Underwriter Company
  • The American College of Financial Services
  • Insurance Data Management Institute
  • International Association of Insurance Professionals
certifications
Professional Certifications can help establish you as an expert in your field or give you credibility in an industry.

Nearly every industry has groups like these. Simply search Google for “industry designations” or “industry certifications.” Be sure to include the name of your industry (financial services, retail, construction, etc.). Your employer may even cover the cost of books and exams.

These designations are still valuable if you work in a support function within your industry. Perhaps you work in Information Technology for agribusiness or Human Resources within the travel industry, for example. You’ll have a much better understanding of the company for which you work and the internal customers you serve. This can help you stand out when it’s time to apply for a promotion or lateral transfer within your company.

Discipline-related certifications

Whatever type of job you do, there are likely associations that provide certifications for your discipline. Most people are familiar with the Project Management Institute (PMI)’s Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. Other certifications exist for other types of roles.

  • The International Institute of Business Analysts (IIBA) offers Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) and other certifications.
  • Training Industry offers Certified Professional in Training Management and other credentials. There are many certifications for professional trainers.
  • There are several Call Center certifications.

Again, a simple Google search for certifications or designations and your job title should do the trick.

College degrees and certificates

College Degree
Consider a college certification or degree.

If you don’t have a degree, or don’t have a degree in your field, you might consider this option. Local and online colleges often have certificate programs that can be earned relatively quickly and cheaply. Degrees are easier than ever to obtain through distance learning, evening courses, or traditional campus experiences. Don’t be afraid to go back to school, even if it’s just to take one class.

Talk to recruiters and hiring managers in your profession. Do they look for advanced training certificates or post-graduate degrees? Do some research before you make a big investment.

Toastmasters

microphone
Step up to the microphone and gain leadership skills with Toastmasters.

Toastmasters is the single best value in experiential learning. You can learn to speak in public, manage meetings, improve your listening skills, and test leadership skills. By performing various roles at weekly meetings, you also earn designations in communication and leadership that you can add to your résumé. Depending on the specific club you join, you may be able to expand your professional network as well.

 

Expand Skills or Experience Section of Your Résumé

Online courses

Many website offer free or inexpensive online instruction. Some let you view or audit courses for free. Some charge a monthly subscription fee or a per-course fee. Coursera, for example, will provide you with an electronic certificate for LinkedIn if you pay a modest fee and complete a course series.

  • OnlineCourses.com
  • Udemy
  • Khan Academy
  • LinkedIn Learning
  • Skillshare

Quick skill-builders

You can also subscribe to YouTube channels and Podcasts to brush up on old skills or learn new ones.

Read, read, and read some more

Books are still a great way to learn for very little out-of-pocket cost. Your local library is free. With eReaders and tablets, you can take literally thousands of books with you everywhere you go. There are numerous blog posts that can help you learn new skills. For example, you can learn about giving positive feedback, giving constructive feedback, or overcoming unconscious bias.  Translate what you learn into action. List those successful projects and initiatives among your accomplishments.

Please share with me how you’re boosting your résumé. I’d love to hear from you!

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