How can you build and retain a diverse team of budgeting professionals?

2 Attract and select diverse candidates

To build a diverse team of budgeting professionals, you need to reach out to a wide pool of potential candidates who have the relevant qualifications, skills, and interest in public administration. You can use various strategies to attract and select diverse candidates, such as posting job openings on diverse platforms and networks, writing inclusive and appealing job descriptions, using fair and objective screening and assessment methods, and seeking input from multiple stakeholders. For example, you can post openings on professional associations, social media groups, or community organizations that cater to different segments of the population. Additionally, you can use structured interviews, standardized tests, or case studies to evaluate the candidates' budgeting knowledge. Moreover, you can seek feedback from current team members, managers, and clients to offer different perspectives on the candidates' fit and potential.

3 Develop and empower diverse team members

Once you have hired your diverse team of budgeting professionals, you need to provide them with the necessary training, mentoring, and support to help them succeed and grow in their roles. To develop and empower your diverse team members, you can create a comprehensive and customized onboarding program that introduces them to the organization's mission, vision, values, policies, and procedures. Additionally, assigning them a mentor or a buddy who can guide them through their initial tasks and answer their questions is beneficial. Furthermore, providing regular and constructive feedback on their performance, strengths, and areas for improvement is essential. You should also encourage them to pursue continuous learning opportunities that can enhance their budgeting skills and knowledge. Finally, involving them in decision-making and problem-solving activities such as brainstorming or reviewing budget proposals can leverage their unique perspectives and ideas.

4 Foster a culture of diversity and inclusion

Creating a culture of diversity and inclusion that values and celebrates differences and similarities is essential for retaining a diverse team of budgeting professionals. You can do this by communicating and modeling your diversity and inclusion goals, policies, and practices, promoting a positive and respectful work environment, facilitating open dialogue among team members, organizing and participating in diversity initiatives and events, and measuring and evaluating outcomes. Taking these steps will help you enhance the performance, creativity, and innovation of your team, leading to better budgeting solutions for your public administration organization.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?