How can you encourage vendors to prioritize diversity and inclusion in hiring?

1 Set clear expectations

The first step is to communicate your own diversity and inclusion goals and policies to your vendors, and to expect them to align with them. You can include diversity and inclusion clauses in your contracts, request codes of conduct and anti-discrimination statements, and monitor their compliance. You can also ask your vendors to provide data on their workforce diversity and inclusion metrics, such as gender, race, ethnicity, disability, and LGBTQ+ representation.

2 Provide feedback and support

The second step is to provide regular feedback and support to your vendors on their diversity and inclusion efforts. You can recognize and reward vendors who demonstrate good practices, such as hiring from underrepresented groups, promoting inclusive culture, and addressing bias and discrimination. You can also offer guidance and resources to help your vendors improve their diversity and inclusion strategies, such as sharing best practices, providing training, and connecting them with other diverse and inclusive vendors.

3 Seek diverse and inclusive vendors

The third step is to actively seek out and partner with diverse and inclusive vendors, especially those who are owned or led by underrepresented groups. You can diversify your vendor pool by expanding your sourcing channels, participating in diversity and inclusion events and networks, and using certification programs and directories. You can also leverage your existing vendors to refer or recommend other diverse and inclusive vendors who can meet your needs.

4 Evaluate and improve

The fourth step is to evaluate and improve your own vendor management processes and practices to ensure they are fair and inclusive. You can audit your vendor selection criteria, evaluation methods, and performance indicators to identify and eliminate any potential bias or barriers. You can also solicit feedback from your vendors on how you can support their diversity and inclusion goals, and implement changes accordingly.

5 Lead by example

The fifth step is to lead by example and demonstrate your own commitment to diversity and inclusion in your organization. You can showcase your diversity and inclusion initiatives, achievements, and challenges to your vendors, and invite them to join or collaborate with you. You can also model inclusive behavior and language in your interactions with your vendors, and address any issues or conflicts that may arise from diversity and inclusion perspectives.

6 Collaborate and learn

The sixth step is to collaborate and learn from your vendors and other stakeholders on diversity and inclusion matters. You can create opportunities for dialogue, exchange, and innovation with your vendors, such as hosting webinars, workshops, or forums. You can also seek feedback, insights, and best practices from your vendors, customers, employees, and industry peers on how to enhance your diversity and inclusion efforts.

7 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?